What online shopping experiences have left you absolutely delighted? As in "I laughed with delight when I opened the box?" I want to start building a list of *great* places to buy gifts for my friends/family, and I'm sure some of you know some great places. My inspiration for this question. posted by pjern at 9:11 PM PST - 25 comments

I exercise on a rowing machine ~4 times a week and while I love the benefit to my body, I hate what it does to my poor palms in the form of calluses. Suggestions? [more inside]posted by TravellingCari at 7:39 PM PST - 20 comments

No dial tone inside my house, but the DSL is working. When I plug a phone directly into the grey box (a.k.a. Network Interface Device) on the outside wall of the house, at the same time disconnecting the link from the phone company's incoming line to the wiring inside the house, I get a dial tone! It seems that the phone company is still providing service. The evidence is exactly what I'd expect if there were a phone off the hook inside the house... but there isn't. What else could be going on? [more inside]posted by aws17576 at 7:16 PM PST - 22 comments

Can a forty-year-old woman get a job as an English teacher in the public education system when so many twentysomethings are in competition for the same jobs? [more inside]posted by tzikeh at 5:56 PM PST - 14 comments

Short version: is there a secret source online (so not IKEA) for attractive, cheap platform beds? I can't drive to pick one up (unless the source is less than 50 miles from Champaign, IL), so online is the only option. [more inside]posted by scrim at 5:20 PM PST - 20 comments

A new dress code at work requires suit and tie. So other than transporting my wardrobe to the office and changing there what is the best way to commute to work on a scooter and arrive in style? [more inside]posted by Gungho at 4:41 PM PST - 14 comments

My computer has a wireless adapter (for internet) and an ethernet cable to a router (not internet-connected). How can I let it access the internet while also being able to access the lan through 192.168.1.X? I can only set it to access one or the other, but not both. [more inside]posted by lpctstr; at 3:52 PM PST - 3 comments

Should I stay an English teacher or move on to a new career?
I have been working in the ESL industry for eight years. I have a Bachelor's degree and CELTA. I have taught babies, young children, as a high school teacher, Business English, and IELTS preparation classes. I am an IELTS invigilator, and have curriculum design experience.
I will be moving to Toronto soon, and I'm wondering what the next step in my career ought to be. I feel as though I've reached the limit of what I can do as a classroom teacher, and am interested in a counselling or international marketing role.
Has anyone made this transition? What qualifications or re-training were needed? Am I on the totally wrong track? Should I just make a totally different move into a new industry? [more inside]posted by mariokrat at 3:46 PM PST - 4 comments

JudgeMe: is it ethical to buy a hard drive enclosure for the express purpose of data recovery and then return the enclosure immediately after the data has been recovered? [more inside]posted by crazycanuck at 3:23 PM PST - 34 comments

Just bought the wife a new laptop loaded with Vista Home Premium, and despite being a smoking machine, we're experiencing all kinds of wifi problems. [more inside]posted by hwestiii at 3:07 PM PST - 4 comments

A few minutes ago, a young guy in a Cadillac pulled up in front of my house and then drove slowly slowly past it, lingering for almost a full minute. He stared intently at the windows especially, like he was trying to see inside. It's clear that he was scoping out the house, but why? [more inside]posted by Powerful Religious Baby at 2:31 PM PST - 23 comments

I'm looking for a project management/social networking site for fabric craftspeople, artisans and hobbyists (can include sewing, weaving, whatever) on the MyFolia model. In other words someplace on line where I can organize my projects and connect with other craftspeople. The forums just aren't working for me-- too much chat, not enough organizing. posted by nax at 1:36 PM PST - 6 comments

Started with a god-awful headache early Thursday morning, developed back pain/spasms later in the day, and a fever (102.9F) that night. Everything else has subsided, but the back pain persists. So I've got a few questions... [more inside]posted by lisawin at 12:36 PM PST - 18 comments

Bipolar filter: is it normal to feel like everything's about to go wrong, and either way, how to move past it, sort yourself out, live in the present and get on with your life? [more inside]posted by mippy at 11:57 AM PST - 8 comments

On Windows XP I cannot seem to set YAHOO as a preference when clicking on Internet options/Internet properties/Programs. The pull-down window gives me only two options: Windows Live Mail or Outlook Express. How do I make Yahoo mail an option? I am moderately technologically-challenged, so please "speak slowly" when you respond! many thanks. posted by Lylo at 10:33 AM PST - 12 comments

My boyfriend would like me to move into his place when school starts (tomorrow). He has two roommates already, and one of them hates me. A few days ago my boyfriend mentioned my moving in and helping with rent to said hateable roommate, and said hateable roommate was uncooperative to say the least. What now? [more inside]posted by shadowfelldown at 7:24 AM PST - 43 comments

I might be in the market for a new laptop. Should I bother trying to get a new laptop, or should I just buy a third battery for a current laptop and switch the batteries out mid-class? [more inside]posted by flibbertigibbet at 7:09 AM PST - 14 comments

Where can I find a watch in this style?
(silver/western/spanish/somewhat ornate)
this is for a man bytheway. It's a "Fossil" brand watch, but they don't sell this style, nor could I find anything like it on amazon. ideas? suggestions? posted by mrmarley at 7:00 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm scared of having to work for a living. I'm terrified I'll feel hollow and depressed and unfulfilled. Is this normal and part of growing up and entering the real world? [more inside]posted by rainygrl716 at 6:41 AM PST - 23 comments

Some of the disciplinary acts I endured as a child and teenager have spilled over into my adult sex life. Is this a healthy thing to encourage, or should I avoid these acts altogether? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:27 AM PST - 16 comments

Where can I buy a new, 3G iPhone for the Optus network (in Australia) without having to sign a contract? Optus certainly won't let me... [more inside]posted by TooManyGadgets at 4:07 AM PST - 7 comments

I just got an original xbox from a yard sale. Short of finding a game backup and trying to run it, or opening the case and looking for a hardware mod, is there any way to tell if it's modded? posted by zippy at 12:14 AM PST - 4 comments

August 30

I'm flying to Bangkok tomorrow morning. What should I know about the current situation? I booked this months ago and am most definitely going, but I'd like to know what to expect. [more inside]posted by mrunderhill at 11:59 PM PST - 6 comments

Looking for the best aftermarket iPhone headset I can afford so I don't have to keep switching between the standard white set and the over-ear headphones I use at work. I'd be willing to spend about $100, more if they were exquisite, but I'd love to stay around $50. [more inside]posted by inkedmn at 10:36 PM PST - 4 comments

How can I sync home and work Outlook 2003 when I don't have admin rights on the computer at work and even my Outlook profile is hidden from the portable syncing apps I've tried? [more inside]posted by angiep at 8:21 PM PST - 5 comments

I've recently started doing weed. The effect that it has had on me is quite noticeable--I feel much more relaxed and confident--like the real me should feel. I have no inhibitions of telling people what I think, which in any other circumstance I would be too ashamed to (thinking that I might not be worthy of having such opinions). But now, I hardly give a damn what anybody else feels. Just one question though: am I okay for thinking that Marijuana might actually not be harmful to me in the extremely small dose that I take it in? [more inside]posted by hadjiboy at 7:15 PM PST - 44 comments

Are there any layman-accessible, English-language books or (less preferably) websites on Japanese etymology or the development of Japanese? [more inside]posted by Citizen Premier at 6:42 PM PST - 6 comments

Tween Filter: My twin nieces turn ten in two weeks and my new reputation as the cool auntie is at stake. I know nothing about kid culture. Help me figure out what to give them for their birthdays, please! [more inside]posted by carmicha at 5:22 PM PST - 22 comments

Is there anything to do in Wilmington, Delaware on a Saturday afternoon? (as in, right now) Preferably something near the train station downtown. That is all. posted by wierdo at 11:57 AM PST - 3 comments

What are some different career paths a paralegal career can take if they choose not to go to law school or any other kind of graduate program? [more inside]posted by onepapertiger at 11:27 AM PST - 4 comments

Japanese knotweed is extremely difficult to kill with herbicides such as round up and the like, does anyone have any other ideas or herbicides in mind?
I have a commercial property that has a bad case of this stuff that I can't get control of. I have at least 1000 square feet of this invasive plant and it keeps spreading. I useually run over it with a skid steer loader and knock it down and crush it but it comes right back. Round up does not seem to do anything and I look ridiculous with a little spray bottle of Round Up up against a towering wall of this weed.
Any help? posted by CFMartin at 10:36 AM PST - 15 comments

I'm looking for free OS X or Windows software that will allow me to draw a room and furniture to scale and move things around to find the best layout. Extra points for simplicity and ease of use. posted by JPDD at 9:27 AM PST - 10 comments

Moving Emergency: What would be the best way to move to a different apartment (locally) in Boston if I don't have a driver's license (i.e. can't rent/use UHAUL)? [more inside]posted by the other side at 9:19 AM PST - 7 comments

I have a friend ("Rob") who has a girlfriend ("Emma"). This is a question about how Rob can break up with Emma and how (and if) I can help him do this. [more inside]posted by xchmp at 7:26 AM PST - 44 comments

My wife and I are looking for a "boot camp" to learn to play electric guitar. Can you recommend any kind of retreats, workshops camps, schools, that offer intense one- or two-week e-guitar training in a pleasant, vacation-like surroundings? [more inside]posted by lord_yo at 7:14 AM PST - 12 comments

Crash course in journalism filter: I have a job interview for a scientific web-journalism position later this week. I have experience doing a wide variety of writing but have never done this sort of journalism before. Better yet, part of the interview involves a 45 minute test. I think this will test my journalistic skill. So does any have any crash-course in online journalism links, advice, etc? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:32 AM PST - 7 comments

Wiring/music equipment question: I have a fairly cheap 30WVox guitar amplifier with a phone/line out jack on the back. When I plug something into the jack, sounds stops coming from the amp's speaker and starts coming out of whatever I plugged in instead. However, I would like it if the sound would come out of both at the same time. How easy or difficult would it be to rewire the amp so that it works this way? I'm good with a soldering iron, but not too great with circuit analysis. posted by donkeymon at 6:06 AM PST - 4 comments

What might be some people for a grown man to go to for advice when his parents, spouse, and friends are... 'unavailable' for various reasons? [more inside]posted by TheManChild2000 at 5:39 AM PST - 15 comments

I'd like to make concrete slabs and coat them with vitreous enamel, but concrete breaks down at high temperatures.
Is there anything as long-lasting and beautiful as vitreous enamel that could be applied to concrete? Or is there anything with the properties of concrete that can withstand the application of vitreous enamel? posted by Joe in Australia at 2:40 AM PST - 7 comments

iTunes has recently developed a new habit that makes me want to toss it out the window. When I play a song or go to "Get Info," iTunes adds to the "Album Artist," "Composer," and "Comment" fields, and changes my track numbers from "x of x" to just "x". I can't find any way to disable this. Do you folks know how? [more inside]posted by phaded at 1:36 AM PST - 8 comments

August 29

I need to park my car in downtown fort worth, tx for two days beginning tomorrow. the hotel we are staying at charges 14. per day to valet (no self park). I would love to find a nice safe and inexpensive alternative. we are okay walking a few blocks, and are staying at Commerce and 6th. thanks in advance for helpful suggestions. posted by rxbert at 9:33 PM PST - 2 comments

Baio-Foster-Filter: In the song "You give a little Love" from the movie Bugsy Malone, played HERE there are two voices I can swear I know from saturday morning cartoons. Who are they? [more inside]posted by rileyray3000 at 7:08 PM PST - 8 comments

Could you point me towards some good sci-fi about creating life? In particular, I'm interested in stories about the possibility of human scientists discovering a means to create life out of previously non-living matter. even more in particular, i'm looking for sci-fi that discusses the possible social/political/philosophical ramifications of such a discovery within a cultural climate analogous to our own. whew![more inside]posted by es_de_bah at 6:26 PM PST - 18 comments

Labor Law: I work for a company in Texas. A friend of mine in another department called in sick this Wednesday and took the day off. She called in sick on Thursday too, but her manager told her that even though she had a fever she needed to come in anyway since they're working on an important project.
Additionally, he told her that she would be working on Labor Day in order to make up for her day off on Wednesday. I guess I could understand this kind of behavior in exceptional circumstances where deadlines and times are really tight, but some parts of the company seem to be perpetually operating in "crunch mode" where taking vacation / sick days is a lot harder than it "should" be.
She's not happy and is beginning to look for another job, but this had me wondering, is this behavior by the company legal? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 5:18 PM PST - 18 comments

I need a good overview in recent Secondary Educational theory. Whatever is currently in fashion in Academia. Any books to recommend? Any journals that are especially helpful? I'm new to this field and not sure where to start. [more inside]posted by pywacket at 4:38 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm having an incredible amount of trouble parceling out my programming work. For those of you who are coders how do you successfully organize your projects? posted by Rubbstone at 3:56 PM PST - 10 comments

Looking for a cheap place to stay for a week in Melbourne, the cheapest that meets these criteria: (1) Hotel is 30 minutes or less from the CBD by public transport; (2) I can get a two-person room with its own shower; (3) I will not get stabbed or robbed there. [more inside]posted by No-sword at 3:40 PM PST - 8 comments

So our daughters are throwing a slumber party tomorrow night and I am looking for ideas for food and activities for the girls. We are looking at 10-15 girls, ages 5-10. Feel free to include any other advice that you feel is pertinent. posted by B(oYo)BIES at 3:17 PM PST - 15 comments

Catfilter: Combining a 3-cat household with a 2-cat household. Yes, that's a lot of cats. Help me figure out how to ensure my house doesn't turn into the Thunderdome! [more inside]posted by oh really at 1:53 PM PST - 8 comments

Please help me automate a repetitive task (log in to website, then after successful login, load some pages, then log out), in a way that can be scheduled so that it runs at two different hours each day. [more inside]posted by mebibyte at 12:49 PM PST - 15 comments

For over seven years I used and loved my Neti Pot. It worked wonders, I wanted to tell everyone about it. Suddenly a few weeks ago, it stopped working for me. How can I breath again. Slightly nasal details inside. [more inside]posted by Classic Diner at 12:44 PM PST - 15 comments

Have you ever had a piano moved professionally? About how much did it cost? I'll be calling around for estimates as soon as I get out of work, but am trying to find a ballpark figure before I do. [more inside]posted by corey flood at 11:42 AM PST - 15 comments

What (if any) are good speech-recognition programs that also serve as full-function recording software?
I'm not sure if this is a dumb question, but I sure couldn't find the answer easily online or in the Ask MeFi archives (despite some good stuff about speech-recognition programs).
What I'm hoping to find is a good speech-recognition program (I'm looking at the basic model of Dragon NaturallySpeaking for now) that also allows you to record and edit long blocks of text.
I suppose I could buy two separate programs - I have also been looking at WavePad as a good recording/editing option - but I'd love to find one program that bundles both capabilities.
If anyone has good suggestions - or even the simple answer to whether I can do the recording/editing stuff with NaturallySpeaking, I'd love to hear from you!
(Another helpful possibility might be if you've got a good freeware option that can do the stuff WavePad does. Older posts here on Ask MeFi have indicated that Audacity might be a good option for this. Any other thoughts?)
Thanks, all! posted by AngerBoy at 11:14 AM PST - 5 comments

I'm running a series of load-tests against my wordpress (WAMP) blog with the apache-benchmark tool. The server is a dedicated server with 2 dual-core xeon procs. and 2gb RAM running the blog only and nothing else. I'm getting 4-5 requests/sec on average. Is this normal?
What would be a reasonable performance in requests/sec? Thanks! posted by artie at 11:10 AM PST - 14 comments

I have some interest in getting a little startup going. I'm thinking through who could help, and some of the people on my list are still at my former employer. I worked there for quite some time, and would like to ask a couple of folks there if they want to commit some off-hours to this as a side project. Problem is: will their employer (my former employer) have any claim on what we create - since they still work there? I'm thinking of the whole anything-you-invent-while-working-here clause we all sign when we get a new job. It's not a competitive idea, necessarily, though it is something the aforementioned company should do themselves and might even be interested in buying someday. Would I spoil things by involving folks who still work there? This is in California. posted by anonymous at 8:42 AM PST - 14 comments

PhD Filter: First year into my course, one chapter written, MS Word can no longer take the strain. It's a humanities PhD, I need a cheap/free alternative... all help appreciated. [more inside]posted by Augenblick at 8:38 AM PST - 37 comments

The son of a dear friend passed away unexpectedly yesterday, from complications following minor surgery. This young man was serving in the US Navy on a sub, and now we are looking for a Navy-related charity we could make a donation to in memory of this young man. Suggestions? posted by anastasiav at 8:01 AM PST - 6 comments

OK. Let's do this fucking thing. I want to help Obama get elected. How can I have the biggest impact in the immediate run-up to Election Day? [more inside]posted by andromache at 7:48 AM PST - 23 comments

I seem to have a form of ... rules rage. I get truly angry over things that, afterward, seem insignificant. Help me find out why, or how to get past it. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:53 AM PST - 29 comments

Home improvement gurus: I'm planning on installing shelving in my linen closet. What hints can you give me to make this task a roaring success? [more inside]posted by Gordion Knott at 6:27 AM PST - 10 comments

I have £10,000 which I made from the sale of my house. Eventually I want to use it as a deposit to buy a new house, but don't envisage this happening within less than a year.
Where's the best place in the UK for me to save this money? posted by mairuzu at 5:18 AM PST - 13 comments

What do you think is fun in Quebec City? My wife and I are going to Quebec City for the long weekend. Any recommendations on what to see and do? We like street markets specifically but we're up for anything, especially touristy stuff. We're staying in the city center but we'll have a car. Neither of us has been there in at least 10 years. posted by Mayor Curley at 5:15 AM PST - 12 comments

I have scored a week long wilderness trip. Hurrah for me. Except the last time I went camping was when I was, oh, 14. And I hated it.
This time, I'll be working as well as camping.
So my question to you, gentle woodsfolk of Metafilter, is what can I do to make my week in the wild productive and fun? Rather than the living hell I remember camping to be. [more inside]posted by t0astie at 3:03 AM PST - 21 comments

About ten days ago I was listening to NPR in my car (KPCC in Pasadena, to be specific) and heard a hysterical piece on Great Britain's success at the Olympics. Help me find it! [more inside]posted by kepano at 11:00 PM PST - 4 comments

My Early 2007 Macbook makes a continuous popping sound (through the headphone jack) whenever anything is plugged into the headphone jack. Audio plays normally through the built in speakers, but only the thumping/popping sound through headphones or external speakers. [more inside]posted by Dorri732 at 8:25 PM PST - 6 comments

*For a Friend:
I was looking for a specific book that is made up of mainly pictures. I think it was illustrated by one of the Star Wars conceptual artists. the image from the book that has stuck in my mind was of a tall ship with a huge flying saucer right next to it. No clue what the title was but I really wanted a copy of it so any help finding it would be much appreciated.
Thanks! posted by meta87 at 8:09 PM PST - 4 comments

Greetings! I was hoping you guys might have some suggestions on the best resources to learn about linux and how to use it to its max potential. I am using Ubuntu 8.04, but I want to learn everything about using linux. The problem is I cant find good resources as usual. I want to learn about the terminal in depth, and every little knook and cranny. I want to know what the good programs are and so on. So any books/websites/etc. you guys could link me would be great. And i already know about ubuntuforums i browse there all the time! posted by Javed_Ahamed at 7:56 PM PST - 16 comments

How can I convert a Word document to a pdf while keeping the margins the same width? We are working on a 5 MB Word document, created with Word 2003 on a PC running Windows XP. The margins must be 1 inch wide. When we convert it to pdf, the right hand margin becomes 1.25 inches wide, and random phrases become boldface. We've tried Acrobat 8 and a freeware converter (dopdf). posted by lukemeister at 7:25 PM PST - 16 comments

American Airlines has announced plans to increase fees for their frequent flier program.
My wife and I want to cash in our miles while we can. We've used up most of our vacation days this year, but where should we go next spring? [more inside]posted by tomwheeler at 6:45 PM PST - 7 comments

What can be done in a marriage where one spouse believes in God and the other doesn't? The wife is (sort of newly) atheist and the husband can't accept this fact. Is there any hope? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:15 PM PST - 45 comments

My doctor has me coming in for a brain CT scan for, what I think, is just a digestive issue. Do I have any reason to freak out? Because I am. [more inside]posted by elisabethjw at 5:27 PM PST - 10 comments

I want to learn, from a teacher face-to-face, to use the various tools in an electronic (as in "dance," including hip-hop) music producer's arsenal. Do classes/lessons exist? How about in Chicago? [more inside]posted by nitsuj at 3:13 PM PST - 5 comments

CD player in my car stopped working (everything else works tape and radio) and when I asked from the dealer I was quoted around $400 to repair it. Since it's not worthwhile spending $400 for a repair I thought of getting an aftermarket player. [more inside]posted by WizKid at 2:50 PM PST - 23 comments

I am 60 years old and thinking of retiring, but unsure about how much money I need to live without working. I have a net worth of $3 million, half of it in two pieces of rental propery with the other half in stocks, bonds and a pension, but live in an expensive area and have a spouse who likes to live well and travel a lot. Can anyone out there offer some good advice? posted by jc1745 at 2:28 PM PST - 14 comments

I've started drinking tea during the summer in the middle of the day for a little pick-me-up. How would you suggest someone cope during the school-day without resorting to coming off of this wonderful addiction? [more inside]posted by guptaxpn at 2:16 PM PST - 24 comments

I'm about to start my own company, one that will require some face time with clients and partners. I'd like to spruce up my wardrobe a bit, but in simple ways. Help? [more inside]posted by crickets at 2:08 PM PST - 5 comments

I did a Google search and came up with a link to a Craigslist posting, but the post is expired. Obviously, Google has the text of this because it shows me snippets of it in the search result list, but there is no "Cached" link for me to see it. How can I get this info out of Google or Craigslist? Or, alternatively, is there a website that has cached versions of Craigslist posts? The post in question is ten days old. posted by MrZero at 1:52 PM PST - 3 comments

ResumeFilter: Preparing my resume to be sent out and wondering about addressing the envelope by hand or printing it off. Also, is it worth it to get some official resume paper? [more inside]posted by silkygreenbelly at 1:49 PM PST - 9 comments

Guitar Filter: I've been playing guitar for a couple years now and I find my strumming arm getting more & more tired as I try to play faster & more aggressively. Does anyone have any exercises or tips to help me out? [more inside]posted by cuando at 1:47 PM PST - 9 comments

Co-worker is rude and dismissive because of something I said. Is there anything I can do to prevent her from threatening my standing with the higher ups? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 1:46 PM PST - 5 comments

I manage over 150 (and growing) domains. I would like to provide email addresses to users at those domains. Rather than provide Pop/IMAP access, I would prefer to forward email to the users' Yahoo/Gmail/etc email addresses. If I setup an MTA to merely forward incoming email without attempting to filter spam will my MTA be 'blacklisted' along with the server at the spam's origin? posted by anonymous at 1:46 PM PST - 6 comments

I'll graduate with a BS in mathematics in June. I plan on taking exactly one year off before entering a PhD program. What should I do during this time off, and what steps should I be taking now? [more inside]posted by alligatorman at 1:29 PM PST - 5 comments

My company recently switched from a standard POP mail server to having GMail as our MX server and hosting all our business accounts. Overall the benefits are quite positive, but I'm having some usage issues that bug me. Can you help me use gmail better? Specific questions inside. [more inside]posted by arniec at 12:25 PM PST - 16 comments

Do you have some mnemonic you came up with to help memorize formulas or concepts in mathematics (particularly for university math)? Or was there a different way of looking at a concept that really helped it sink in? [more inside]posted by Proginoskes at 12:12 PM PST - 5 comments

I have finally decided that though I'm smart, I'm mostly average. The only way for me to be able to make decisions that will lead to becoming really successful is if I have people around me who are smarter than me, and who can teach me stuff.
I need a mentor, how do I find this mentor? [more inside]posted by ChabonJabon at 11:47 AM PST - 19 comments

How do I politely say "thanks, but no thanks" when someone messages me from an online dating site? I've recently joined okcupid, mostly to meet new people, and so far have had some really nice conversations. However, I've also had some people contact me that I don't seem to have anything in common with. I don't want to just delete their messages - that seems rude, when they've gone out on a limb to message me. But what's a polite way to say I don't see anything to talk about, without that turning into its own conversation? posted by anonymous at 11:25 AM PST - 39 comments

Prime rate prognosticators: if you had a choice between a five-year business loan at a fixed 7.5% or floating one point above prime, which would you go with? posted by bjork24 at 11:17 AM PST - 6 comments

Here's the deal: I've exhausted my neurons looking for some kind of answer to a mathematical symbol stumper. I'd love to know who invented, originated, or was the first individual to use the double-tilde (≈) as a means of expressing/denoting "approximately equal" in mathematics. I know that Robert-Recorde is supposed to have introduced the "equals" sign (=) in 1557. Any and all assistance is greatly appreciated. I await enlightenment. posted by font_snob at 11:14 AM PST - 5 comments

Lets say you win a very large lottery (ie +$50 Mil), and you decide to just take the whole thing in to your local small town bank, what would that large of a deposit to do the bank? posted by ShawnString at 11:12 AM PST - 7 comments

What are the best ipod/regular speakers to use while studying abroad for a year? I will be studying abroad for a year and living in college-dorm type room (meaning cramped). I will have my iPod and my MacBook Pro with me. Right now I have the Harmon/Kardon Soundsticks II and love them, but they're too big to bring. What are the best speakers that I can get for uner $150? Thanks! posted by daf81289 at 10:32 AM PST - 11 comments

I have a cable modem provided by Time Warner Cable of NYC (seen here). The back of the device has one 10 Base-T port (ethernet jack) and one USB type B jack. Can I connect a laptop to the USB jack and my Xbox 360 to the ethernet jack? [more inside]posted by 2bucksplus at 9:16 AM PST - 13 comments

I’m a girl. I have zero problems being friends with men. I try to be friends with other women, but they're not having it. I’m doing something wrong. What is it? [more inside]posted by zoomorphic at 9:04 AM PST - 51 comments

Back in the mid 90s, in the early days of internetting, I visited the alt.tasteless.photos newsgroup for the first and last time; I saw a set of photos there that I still wonder about. (Gory inside) [more inside]posted by luser at 7:54 AM PST - 13 comments

What are some fun impromptu games--I'm thinking like Punch Buggy, or Not It? AND, what are some fun conversation games--like Would You Rather, or The Dozens, or Questions, or Existential Rock Paper Scissors? posted by Ollie at 7:13 AM PST - 24 comments

One of the folks on my payroll is somehow both the best and worst employee ever. How can I better manage his occasionally bad attitude in order to make my life and the lives of the other employees less traumatic? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:45 AM PST - 22 comments

My Google-fu has failed me. Where can I find a sequenced list of the admission requirements for Australian university courses? Ideally, I'm looking for something like "Top 50 most difficult-to-get-into courses in Australia". [more inside]posted by [ixia] at 4:49 AM PST - 9 comments

I'm looking for unusual/exotic/foreign breakfast ideas - I've become tired of the usual cereal option, and would like something new. Doesn't matter if it needs cooking, because I have plenty of time, and should preferably be relatively healthy. posted by PTCHFRKR at 2:56 AM PST - 40 comments

August 27

Interstate movers gave a binding estimate ($2300) based on an accurate list that we supplied, but after all the furniture was loaded on the truck they told us it was more than twice the price ($5300)! What can we do? [more inside]posted by Nickel at 10:55 PM PST - 25 comments

How do I get my 4 year old Jack Rusell to stop peeing on things? He IS potty trained, and neutered, but still seems to be "marking" furniture and corners all over my apartment, and I NEVER catch him in the act. I've heard this is an issue that is more common in Jack Russells. Is there anything I can do to deter this so he won't pee on my new couch? [more inside]posted by veronicacorningstone at 8:52 PM PST - 7 comments

I know next to nothing about cell phones over the past year, but now find myself in the market. I need: simplicity, battery life, functionality most important is ease of use of phone including contacts import from outlook, calender syncing with outlook (my office doesn't seem to use the kind of MS exchange server that would easily allow that option), and occasional web browsing with maps for travel. what do folks recommend? I see Costco has a special today: free Blackberry Pearl with one year contract with Tmobile posted by dougiedd at 8:14 PM PST - 9 comments

If you know a non-English language (especially one written in a non-Western alphabet), will you please tell me whether your language's entry is correct in this list? [more inside]posted by kalapierson at 6:06 PM PST - 36 comments

There's something in the air around here lately - Park Slope, Brooklyn - that smells a lot like cloves or clove oil, and a bit like pipe tobacco. It came on strong yesterday afternoon and is still drifting around today. [more inside]posted by moonmilk at 4:40 PM PST - 7 comments

Any advice concerning email communication with professors who I'll be contacting at the various schools that I will be applying to for PhD programs in Political Science? [more inside]posted by davidstandaford at 4:40 PM PST - 10 comments

Ask me find this how to website! A series of videos with hipsters teaching you things like how to calm down a baby by turning on a tap, and wrapping your headphones' cord. [more inside]posted by Andorinha at 2:42 PM PST - 7 comments

Please recommend a full-body swimsuit for a not-so-clean pond. It's the closest body of water to my house by far, and I really want to swim there, but the cleanliness of the water has got me worried. [more inside]posted by portabella at 2:10 PM PST - 8 comments

I was wondering if there is an equivalent to We the People, whom took care of my divorce paperwork in California, in Chicago for my sister unfortunately needs to file for divorce... [more inside]posted by matthelm at 2:00 PM PST - 3 comments

Colleague and I are staying in York, UK for a week in October. Help us decide which flat we should rent. One is at 16 Park Crescent, just off Monkgate. The other is in a converted warehouse on Peter Lane, near High Ousegate. We want good pubs and walks nearby, and we value quiet and safety. [more inside]posted by infodiva at 1:20 PM PST - 8 comments

I totally botched a job interview today. I really want the job, and am just starting to write a follow-up / thank-you e-mail. Help me do it well! [more inside]posted by fogster at 1:10 PM PST - 23 comments

Looking for a song/lullaby that my mother-in-law's mother used to sing to her. Memories are fading and I can only offer one line (or one rememberance of one line)
You boys and girls are your mother's pearls
possible with a Remember in front of it. [more inside]posted by handybitesize at 1:02 PM PST - 2 comments

Which is better: mypreferrednamesoftware.com or mypreferredname.biz? Or do I have to keep trying to find anothergoodname.com that isn't already taken? [more inside]posted by alms at 12:55 PM PST - 17 comments

Generally speaking, how long does it take for a root language to evolve into mutually incomprehensible offshoot languages? Or, conversely, how long would languages with a common root be understandable to one another's native speakers? [more inside]posted by CKmtl at 12:02 PM PST - 9 comments

I want to make some animal-shaped food. I would prefer savory to sweet, and I do not want to use a mold or a cookie cutter to achieve the animal shape. [more inside]posted by waltzing astronomers at 11:36 AM PST - 19 comments

Hi. For my mom.
In New Hampshire, is there any sort of recourse for a neighborhood that has recently been denied by a new homeowner a "traditional path" down to the water, where all kayak and canoe? More inside. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 11:30 AM PST - 15 comments

I'm beginning a project where I need to construct a 3D model based off the "average" shape (I'm not sure that's exactly the proper term) of a number of similar real-world objects, and I'm not sure on the best workflow or process. Example: I have 25 bananas and I want to create a 3D model based off the average shape of all these bananas. [more inside]posted by itchi23 at 10:57 AM PST - 18 comments

I am involved in the design and construction of a six-classroom Head Start building in rural Oregon. While major northwest foundations are involved in funding the building itself, I now must find sources for grants to build the playgrounds. This may run in excess of 100k. Do any of you know of likely sources for such funds? posted by partner at 9:33 AM PST - 3 comments

I'm sitting on the Block Island ferry, enjoying a spicy bloody marry, and wondering if there are other alcoholic drinks with bite. What are your favorite fiery drinks? posted by splatta at 9:21 AM PST - 21 comments

Myself: atheist. SO: Lutheran.
Not too long ago she sent me an email to say that at some point in the future she would like to talk about the religious card and its possible effect on our relationship. Any thoughts on how to approach this? Hints have been dropped here and there at her wanting to finally discuss this. [more inside]posted by roooooot at 8:38 AM PST - 23 comments

Dumb, horny, out of the country, drunk, paying for strippers with credit card. They ripped me off to the tune of $2600. Stupid, stupid, stupid. It was different from a typical American strip joint, more a 'get a private room' sort of place, not a big stage show, and no sex acts performed.
I was offered and have no receipts. I only remember signing one. I have five separate charges from this place on my card. I wasn't there very long, maybe two hours. I'm 99% sure I'm being ripped off.
I DO NOT want to do anything illegal, and am willing to pay what I really signed for. How should I proceed? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 8:13 AM PST - 34 comments

I scanned with OmniPage 4,000 records and now have a single column of records saved as a text file each record is separated by a blank line. Each record is composed of 4, 5, 6 or 7 lines with the first 3 or 4 or 5 lines being the address the rest is fax, phone, email.. [more inside]posted by Mauimarty at 8:12 AM PST - 9 comments

I sit at a computer all day and then like to play/compose at the piano in the evening. I've always had slight discomfort "sitting up strait" due to forward head posture, but I've been able to minimize the discomfort with frequent breaks, stretching and such. Recently the pain has increased. I've read up on posture and have started Alexander Technique lessons, but when I try to sit up strait as in all the ergonomic diagrams and as directed in lesson, the base of my neck and the area between my shoulder blades aches MORE. Shouldn't correct posture minimize this? Any advice, exercises, or techniques to get my body on board with the new posture? [more inside]posted by distrakted at 8:11 AM PST - 9 comments

My buddy and I are trying to figure out what we need so we can have amplification and recording capabilities when we jam in the basement. I've played acoustic guitar and drums for years but am an absolute n00b when it comes to next steps. Meaning, I don't know the difference between a PA or an amp (is a PA an amp?). [more inside]posted by pencroft at 7:41 AM PST - 6 comments

Cannabisfilter (haha) How would cannabis affect my Nerves and is it even a neurotoxin?
How dangerous is it really? The internet gives me very split opinions on it.. [more inside]posted by freddymetz at 4:37 AM PST - 13 comments

August 26

I'm looking for back story on a somewhat disturbing photograph which was circulating around the internet around 10-15 years ago. Trouble is, I no longer have a copy of the file, and can't find it. [more inside]posted by sergeant sandwich at 11:29 PM PST - 8 comments

Help me identify my rug! It has a label on the back that says "OSMAN" across the top, with a picture of a mosque and some Arabic or Persian writing along the bottom. Where was it made, and what does the label say? [more inside]posted by pmann at 9:21 PM PST - 13 comments

Help me solve an iTunes problem I hope I won't have. My poor little Dell has been working hard all day, processing a .M4V file using the "Convert Selection for iPod" feature in iTunes. After 12 hours it's about 75 percent done, but it's raining here. Our power has a bad habit of going out during storms, and I'll be really depressed if I lose this in-process file if/when the computer reboots. [more inside]posted by Sweetie Darling at 7:52 PM PST - 9 comments

What sortve cities/towns should I consider moving w/ my indoor/outdoor cat? A yard, trees, plants, and small animals to hunt required...and things for me to do as well. [more inside]posted by pilibeen at 7:40 PM PST - 6 comments

Help me to be the best dog trainer possible to my clients! Tell me what you look for in a dog trainer, and what you hope the experience will be like. Tell me your best and worst experiences. I teach group classes in basic and advanced obedience, work with owners whose dogs have serious behavior problems like aggression and anxiety, and everything in between, so all feedback is helpful. [more inside]posted by freshwater_pr0n at 7:11 PM PST - 8 comments

3-5 times a week, every week, I receive promotional offers from American Express (with whom I am a current cardholder). How do I get them to stop? [more inside]posted by tumbleweedjack at 6:44 PM PST - 14 comments

How would you find a ranked list of professional sportsmens' jersey sales for a particular league during a particular season? For instance, where could you find a ranked list of the sales of NFL players' jerseys for 2007? [more inside]posted by ChasFile at 5:05 PM PST - 1 comment

Leash training question. Dog stops walking all of the sudden on walks and will not come. We end up having to carry him back to house every day. Any advice? [more inside]posted by wolfkult at 3:54 PM PST - 10 comments

Identity Theft filter: long story short, my email, debit card #, first and last name, and home address were used fraudulently to open an account with ccbill.com. How does this happen? [more inside]posted by chez shoes at 3:28 PM PST - 18 comments

Are there any good swimming holes in the San Francisco Bay Area or nearby? (Let's say, within a three hour drive.) I'd love to find some fresh water to swim in -- lakes, rivers, streams, something like that. Thanks for any suggestions! (And feel free to Mefi-mail me if you don't want to tell everyone your secret spot.) posted by salvia at 3:01 PM PST - 18 comments

I am trying to find out if if DC comics is sooner than later (if ever) going to release the Batman and Detective comics runs from artist Neal Adams era in the 60s and 70s. I know they have released expensive colored hardbounds but I am hoping for some cheap thick black and white Showcase versions like they are doing for other titles...I know they do the worst titles first...but even Marvel is releasing their good stuff in the Essential series. Any news would be good. Thanks. posted by snap_dragon at 2:20 PM PST - 2 comments

Help me identify a peach! I work for an orchard. We planted what we were sold as doughnut peach trees but they're not bearing doughnut peaches; they're bearing mystery peaches. [more inside]posted by veggieboy at 2:17 PM PST - 10 comments

My landlord refuses to install rain gutters and so every time it rains we have to jump over a deep puddle that forms by our front steps. What can I put there temporarily that will keep us from stepping into the puddle? I'm thinking bricks of some kind but is there a better solution? The puddle is usually about four to six inches deep and a few feet around. posted by ranunculus at 2:12 PM PST - 15 comments

Just moved to North Carolina. My husband is *trying* to get his NC driver's license, but they are insisting he have his social security card in order to do so. Why is this? He has a passport; why isn't this enough? posted by All.star at 1:59 PM PST - 15 comments

What happened to the Holland Bar in New York? I walked past and the gates were down! The phone is not being answered. Yet another NYC dive gone? What are my alternatives? posted by monospace at 1:21 PM PST - 8 comments

She has an iPhone, I have an iPhone, and we want to share a calendar that can be seen and edited by both of us from our iPhones. Should be easy but apparently not... [more inside]posted by rleamon at 1:18 PM PST - 8 comments

I am addicted to TV. I struggled for years to limit my intake. Finally about 8 years ago, I gave my TV away. Success! Huzza!
Lately I have been watching TV online. I have also been wasting time online. I have even been onlining online. [more inside]posted by rdurbin at 12:38 PM PST - 16 comments

I am a frugal person entering his senior year in college [age 21].
I have been following advice like the stuff in
thread 84915and thread 99852
and living below my means. I sought advice in Financial books for college kids my age [for example, generation debt], but left feeling wanting more because they focus primarily on how to cut expenses [skipping the latte, etc].
So, I have some student loans already, but will need more for my senior year. I also have some money set aside, but I should I use this money to lower the loan amount that I'll take out or use this money for an investment (Roth IRA, index fund), and take out more for my student loans ? [more inside]posted by fizzix at 12:28 PM PST - 11 comments

I am looking for some uber-cool comic book storage ideas. I am not really down with the boring cardboard boxes; however the storage does need to be of of the box and/or cabinet variety. Does anyone have any suggestions? posted by AlliKat75 at 12:28 PM PST - 4 comments

I've been doing some thinking lately about blogs. It seems that most of the really popular, successful blogs stick to one topic or another, pretty well defined (food, books, politics, celebrities, etc.).
Are there any really popular or successful (in the sense of widely-read, or just good to read) blogs that are about a variety of topics, or that take the 'one person's views on a whole bunch of things' model? posted by toomuchkatherine at 12:08 PM PST - 17 comments

This is a bit of a follow up to this question. I'm contemplating a small comics project staring a fictionalised version of HP Lovecraft (something I've done before but thsi will be slight higher profile) and the title will be something along the lnes of "H.P. Lovecraft's World of Weirdness". Is the use of his name in the title like that, which might imply some kind of authorship or endorsement or somesuch, likely to bring the Lovecraft estate down on me like a ton of bricks? posted by Artw at 11:56 AM PST - 7 comments

My company is looking to build a search engine to index our web site and I'm wondering if anyone has used any open package to do the task. Names, URLs, experience would be highly appreciated, posted by seeminglee at 10:37 AM PST - 6 comments

Can anyone suggest a good, relatively simple open-source or low-cost file/client management program suitable for use by a small law firm? The software should be able to schedule/calendar, manage documents, track tasks/to-dos, and associate all of these things according to particular clients/matters. Something that syncs between machines is a definite plus, as is something that isn't a resource hog. We manage the accounting side separately, so that needn't be a component. [more inside]posted by yeliabmit at 10:19 AM PST - 7 comments

Hive mind, I'm need of your help. My friend's birthday is coming up soon and I was hoping to plan a trip for her in the upcoming year. Help me choose where we should go. [more inside]posted by patla at 9:09 AM PST - 16 comments

What is the best way to set up a virtual storefront website for a mom-and-pop outfit in the business of selling hand-painted porcelain dolls and ceramics? [more inside]posted by Roach at 8:43 AM PST - 11 comments

I'm a librarian and general tech-assistance resource at a high school library. (So I also do password changes for school accounts, fix the copier, and put paper in the printer, besides reference questions and more involved projects.)
The classic way to track what questions a librarian answers is with a piece of paper and hash marks. Due to our paper reduction desires (and my desire to not have a piece of paper taking up valuable desk space), I'd really like a way to track this via computer.
We want to keep simple stats both so we can demonstrate what we're doing that isn't a big obvious project, but also so we can show if specific choices have a very high staff-time cost that keeps us from other things. (Like how they decided to handle student passwords this year.) [more inside]posted by modernhypatia at 8:34 AM PST - 17 comments

I'm a doctor in private practice. I love to blog, just not about medicine. I like to do more personal writing, post photos and links, creative projects, write about recent trips, my city, etc (i.e. nothing political, offensive).
How would you feel if you found your doctor's personal blog? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 8:16 AM PST - 33 comments

I would like to start swimming laps. I have big boobs. What size Speedo or Tyr-type woman's swimsuit should I get to prevent uncomfortable boob-flopping? [more inside]posted by craichead at 6:55 AM PST - 20 comments

I am looking at ways of improving indoor air quality, and am considering having an Energy Recovery Ventilator installed. Anyone have experience with one, if its a worth while expense. [more inside]posted by [insert clever name here] at 6:13 AM PST - 2 comments

A co-worker and I are having an ultimate Guitar Hero Battle to the death in 3 months time. I need some tips/techniques so I can kick his ass! [more inside]posted by gwenlister at 5:52 AM PST - 32 comments

Joomla filter: I have a client with a Joomla site already built, but they do not like the built in editor for it. Is there any way of changing it, or is there a plug-in that can added? [more inside]posted by wile e at 3:00 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm a lawyer from a top law school with a year of work experience. I want to become an academic clinical psychologist (professor + therapist). After 9 months in a master's program, what will my admissions chances look like? [more inside]posted by shivohum at 9:58 PM PST - 4 comments

About 84 hours ago I had four wisdom teeth extracted. The bottom left, though, has been the most painful and swollen post-op. I've also noticed a strip along the left underside of my tongue was numb and, more significantly, that strip has since spread around the tip of my tongue. Should I be worried/what should I ask my doctor (whom you are not)? [more inside]posted by d. z. wang at 8:37 PM PST - 10 comments

I am in my apartment in downtown Portland, OR, and it sounds like we're being swarmed by many smallish airplanes. What is this? Is it part of some event? posted by Secretariat at 7:49 PM PST - 9 comments

I have some books I purchased online that are purportedly retired from their originating library's collection. How do I know if they are retired or on the lam? [more inside]posted by jamaro at 6:26 PM PST - 11 comments

Hellacious Cymbalta withdrawal (I'm two weeks in). The side effects are beginning to overwhelm me. What can I do to make this withdrawal process easier? [more inside]posted by misha at 5:21 PM PST - 15 comments

Bakingfilter: Fridge to oven? No problemo or madness? I want to bake a cake tonight (a pflaumenkuchen) that's been sitting in the fridge all day. Do I need to let it warm up to room temp before I bake it (recipe says 350 F for 40-45 min) or can it go straight from the fridge into the oven? It's in a metal pan, so I'm not worried about anything breaking. Burning the cake would be a sad thing, however. posted by longdaysjourney at 4:58 PM PST - 8 comments

I am seeing my doctor tomorrow about quitting smoking. I have tried quitting so many times I can no longer keep count. But nicotine has this tremendous hold on me. I have smoked for almost four years and would like to see my 29th birthday as a turning point. What questions should I be asking my doctor and what questions should I be prepared to answer? posted by parmanparman at 4:32 PM PST - 23 comments

Looking for information about how get to get recompense from a landlord for three weeks spent without a working shower or washing machine. (UK) [more inside]posted by Urtylug at 4:00 PM PST - 6 comments

Oh my god. Worst smell ever, of all time, in my kitchen. Best I can describe is a combination of fermented rice, lots of fish sauce, maybe a bit of turpentine...really horrible. Basically we waited a couple of days too long to empty the garbage, something fermented and leaked in the bag, then it got all over the floor when we tried to take the bag out. How do I get the smell out? [more inside]posted by Deathalicious at 3:52 PM PST - 20 comments

If you're a straight male college student how do you signal to women of the same age that you're interested in sleeping with them - while avoiding the extremes of coming across as objectifying or amorous? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 3:03 PM PST - 45 comments

Rental truck to NYC: Which streets on my route forbid such vehicles? Which streets would be just plain inconvenient to drive on with such vehicles? [more inside]posted by aswego at 2:40 PM PST - 7 comments

A friend of mine (ahem) is eying a refurbished MacBook Pro. (Even though a new one is supposedly imminent, we're sticking with refurb in this scenario.) How many generations old are the units in Apple's refurb store? How can you tell? Does the 2.4GHz 15" model there today include the "new" LED monitor technology introduced in February, for example? [more inside]posted by pzarquon at 1:57 PM PST - 11 comments

What phone service would be best for me? All I use my Verizon Wireless account for is the phone itself: calling and messaging people. But I think I'm paying far too much. I live in NYC. Suggestions? (description of bill here) [more inside]posted by omnigut at 1:46 PM PST - 11 comments

Without actually pole vaulting, how would I, a woman who is a marathon runner, approach a closer approximation of the pole vaulter physique? [more inside]posted by Punctual at 1:29 PM PST - 15 comments

What is the simplest way of transferring old outlook express mails to gmail? I've set it up so that new mails received are forwarded automatically to gmail but moving old mails is proving more difficult posted by conrad101 at 1:01 PM PST - 2 comments

My girlfriend and I just moved to Austin, Texas and she's looking for a job in graphic design. She needs advice, and I want to know how I can best help and support her in her job search. [more inside]posted by malthas at 12:38 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm looking for a radio program or new article I heard/read in the past month about growing up in China and all of the pressures Chinese youth face to be successful in school and life. [more inside]posted by anonymous78 at 12:20 PM PST - 4 comments

How does one get a start in the tourism / travel consultant business? Education or work experience? What kinds? More questions than answers, inside... [more inside]posted by chrisinseoul at 12:09 PM PST - 1 comment

What is the best online essay available for history, anecdotes, methodologies, etc. for the Brazilian (and elsewhere, to be sure) footballer practice of going by a single-word nickname? posted by boombot at 11:23 AM PST - 7 comments

As I increase Effexor dosage should I notice increased effectiveness or do we each have a threshold we have to pass before we start to feel anything? [more inside]posted by GleepGlop at 11:17 AM PST - 11 comments

I recently got a stripe of mild discoloration on my hand about a half-inch long. I am almost certain that it isn't a bruise, as it has been on my hand for about a month now. It has faded, but doesn't look like it's going to go away on its own. What caused it? [more inside]posted by Damn That Television at 10:44 AM PST - 11 comments

Three years ago Verizon sent my roommate a modem; she not only never used it, she never opened the box. Three months ago my roommate moved to Australia and left lots of stuff behind. Three days ago I found that box, opened it, and found what was in it. Three minutes ago Verizon finally told me they don't want it back.
Ethically and practically -- what should I do with it? [more inside]posted by EmpressCallipygos at 9:40 AM PST - 13 comments

Oops, I didn't go to work today. Thing is, I didn't know I was supposed to. Am I in the right or the wrong? Also, a little other anxiety about this new job. [more inside]posted by Baethan at 9:13 AM PST - 22 comments

What can we do to get out from under a lemon of a house? About 10 years ago, we bought a house that was a DIY fixer-upper with some serious issues. 10 years of graduate school poverty coupled with a couple of major illnesses that limited physical activity hindered our ability to make more than just the basic repairs. Now the house is even worse, and a new job has forced us to make an out-of-state move. [more inside]posted by KirkJobSluder at 8:54 AM PST - 12 comments

I've read all the food questions. I have a new one. I need portable foods that don't need refrigeration or heating that can keep me alert and satisfied for 12ish hours. [more inside]posted by bilabial at 8:51 AM PST - 15 comments

Ever notice the fish tanks with koi carp near the entrance in many Chinese restaurants? A friend told me that they are actually there to indicate (perhaps through the number or type of fish?) whether the restaurant owner has paid up to the local Chinese mafia (triad). Is there any truth to this or is it just another urban legend? posted by sour cream at 8:32 AM PST - 21 comments

MeFites, I have a bit of a problem.
I'm a twenty-year-old heterosexual college female with, it seems, a nerd problem. I have never dated or kissed anyone in my life, and I'm starting to wonder if it's my personality that's the issue. [more inside]posted by themaskedwonder at 7:42 AM PST - 82 comments

I'm having a last minute panic attack about the travel arrangements for my trip to Ireland and I leave tonight. Should I have stuck to the bus/train? [more inside]posted by saraswati at 7:29 AM PST - 24 comments

I'm planning to buy a bicycle for myself and a trailer for two children to ride in. For the bike, I'd like to get something like a simple three-speed cruiser, but I've been told that I'll need more gears to pull the trailer. What do I need to look for in a bike to make it a good trailer-puller? [more inside]posted by winston at 6:31 AM PST - 11 comments

How much should an unknown band charge an acquaintance to use one of their songs in a podcast? Podcast is highly targeted and may initially be heard by 80-100 people. posted by Area Control at 6:31 AM PST - 17 comments

I'm looking for a good general information literacy tutorial with a focus on good search strategies, using bibliographic databases, etc. It needs to be suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate literature students. [more inside]posted by Webbreader at 5:52 AM PST - 4 comments

I've got a quantity of US coins, maybe $30-40. I'm in the UK, specifically London, and not likely to be visiting the US again. How can I do some good with this money? [more inside]posted by Hogshead at 5:47 AM PST - 9 comments

My housemate has scabies, and I (at least yet) do not. I have a vacation scheduled in a week that will have me staying in a condo with 6 other people. My doctor doesn't want to treat me unless I start to itch because "it's unpleasant," but I really don't want to infest my fellow travelers... What to do? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 5:13 AM PST - 9 comments

Let's pretend I am not too far away from completing a feature-length screenplay on spec. I live far from LA with no connections to Hollywood, and I've got very little money squared away. Once the script itself is done, how would I most effectively pimp out my product to a studio? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 5:12 AM PST - 15 comments

I want to know how you get things done. I'm not looking for a self-help book; I want to know what you do, on a daily basis, to get things accomplished. Anything goes. posted by roygbv at 1:53 AM PST - 31 comments

I know this is going to sound stupid, but I must know; here in Arizona, Cox Communication's has been playing a commercial featuring little blue visored characters running around doing crap. In the background of one of the commercials, there's a really beautiful acoustic song playing. I don't know any of the words. I can't find it on google, I can't find it on Youtube. As awesome as I know Askmefi is, I'm pretty sure this will stump all ya'll... [more inside]posted by Bageena at 12:14 AM PST - 6 comments

August 24

What's the best way to catch all of the olympics that I missed? It seems like NBC's coverage was narrow at best and I'd like to see some of the great stuff they didn't focus on. Is there the equivalent of a boxed set of olympic footage that will show up on netflix at some point, or am I just stuck cobbling together olympic torrents? posted by mecran01 at 11:08 PM PST - 12 comments

So... I was doing some light reading on feline behavior tonight (yes, I'm a cat nerd)...
Scroll to page 34. Look at the cute photo of a cat on a file cabinet.
Read the caption underneath the photo. [more inside]posted by grippycat at 9:05 PM PST - 13 comments

Are there any artists/back to the landers/punk rockers/non-traditional folks out there that bridged their work with the "real world", made enough money while also doing their own work, and/or had satisfying careers? (I just left my grad school program & I'm going through a lot of big changes and soul searching!) [more inside]posted by Rocket26 at 8:55 PM PST - 8 comments

I'm going backpacking for a couple of weeks in the Beartooth mountains next summer. I'll be above the tree line most of the time. I'd like to have some local herbs and greens to make trail food more palatable. Is the flora described in Edible and Medicinal Plants of the Rockies going to be the right stuff for this trip? Is there another pack-reference which will better describe this biome? [more inside]posted by a robot made out of meat at 6:30 PM PST - 3 comments

I work for Small Company A. I want to work for Small Company B. But Small Company A has close dealings with Small Company B, and I worry that Small Company A will find out if I apply to Small Company B. And there will be repercussions if my current bosses at Small Company A find out, because they are extremely petty. So what should I be doing? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:10 PM PST - 13 comments

I am a clinical social worker looking to start a private practice. Are there any good books that cover the basics on how to do this? if you are in private practice, how did you start? What are the main things I should know? Is it possible to make a living doing this? Should managed care be avoided? [more inside]posted by marlys27 at 5:31 PM PST - 4 comments

What do you say to someone who apologizes for something they've done that you're not okay with at all? This would be in a non-personal type relationship... more of a setting where you're the customer. [more inside]posted by FortyT-wo at 4:28 PM PST - 30 comments

How does one become a biographer? What's the usual route in, and how do publishers approach it? How does one approach and involve people? Vague specifics inside. [more inside]posted by carbide at 4:14 PM PST - 5 comments

I need help understanding how my hyper-smart geek husband's brain works. I want to give him the understanding he craves but am having a hard time inhabiting his plane. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 4:12 PM PST - 63 comments

Looking for popular history books whose title is or starts with a specific year - 1776, 1491, 69 A.D., etc. A subtitle after the year is fine, but the title needs to start with a specific date. Thanks! [more inside]posted by mediareport at 4:04 PM PST - 28 comments

A few years ago I came across an alternative to Windows Explorer that let you browse the contents of your drives by disk space used. The display was a kind of Mondrian grid, with the files and folders taking up the most disk space having the largest area on the display. Can anyone point me to this utility (or something similar)? posted by Lokheed at 4:01 PM PST - 5 comments

I'm driving from San Jose to Seattle with all my belongings on Tuesday. It's a 14 hour trip so I plan to stay one night at a motel. How can I best protect my car from being broken into and robbed at night? And any suggestions for places to stay? posted by lpctstr; at 3:50 PM PST - 20 comments

I'm looking for short stories/poems/creative non-fiction and the like about school, schooling, education, and/or learning to write/self-expression. Should be suitable for college freshpersons. posted by Saxon Kane at 3:42 PM PST - 4 comments

Where should I go for a relaxing, warm, beach vacation in December? I'm in New York City and would like to stay in North/Central America and/or the Caribbean due to flight times. [more inside]posted by TravellingCari at 2:17 PM PST - 7 comments

I'm an avid primitive outdoorsman living in Temecula, California one hour north of San Diego, 45 minutes east of Oceanside, and one hour south of San Bernardino (including Crestline, Lake Arrowhead, Big Bear, Devore). I'm seeking any sort of hunting, fishing, or collecting. On land I plan to using primarily a bow and, when hunting on private property with permission, an atlatl or sling. [more inside]posted by bone.eater at 2:15 PM PST - 10 comments

The girlfriend and I cannot take another mm of rain in Scotland. We want to go somewhere hot (europe...anywhere!...hot!) for 4-5 nights (leaving tomorrow) but cannot find anywhere helpful to book a place to go. Please... help... somebody.... impulsive.. to find a website that'll help so WE CAN BE DRY!! [more inside]posted by you're only jung once at 12:58 PM PST - 17 comments

In our living room (new construction), we have a space for my new HDTV, but we want it "hidden", "tucked away" or "invisible" when not in use. What are some great ways to do this? [more inside]posted by 925 at 12:41 PM PST - 10 comments

For a friend... who has a virus on their gateway laptop, and the windows boot disk tells me the hard drive is not found... suggestions on formatting the disk? [more inside]posted by yoyoceramic at 11:13 AM PST - 12 comments

I am trying to recreate some intricate wood molding on a piece of furniture. I have a mirrored piece to cast from, but dont know what to cast it with. [more inside]posted by elationfoundation at 10:44 AM PST - 3 comments

How do continuing relationships with opposite sex friends (and some former lovers) affect one's primary relationship? Can these relationships negatively impact the SO relationship even though there is no desire on either SO's part to cheat? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 9:27 AM PST - 24 comments

I'm going to be writing a profile of a business professor who has won some teaching awards. I'll be interviewing him on the phone. What questions should I ask that would help me raise the interview above the lame threshold? I'd like the profile to be insightful and interesting. posted by storybored at 8:37 AM PST - 6 comments

What kinds of things can/should I do for my Mother, upon the death of her sister (my Aunt), in order to make her more at ease, both now, and over the ensuing months/years? [more inside]posted by segatakai at 8:31 AM PST - 7 comments

I'm looking for a poem whose first lines are "When the sun dies there will be eight minutes of light/Not enough time to hoard lemons or bulbs . . . " and it goes on from there. Next line is something like "or let the camera record the slow explosion of a rose." Can't find it anywhere! Ungoogleable. It's driving me nuts! (I heard it a decade ago.) posted by liketitanic at 7:22 AM PST - 6 comments

Sometimes, my keyboard switches to Dvorak for no apparent reason. We can't find a trigger for it--it occurs when typing in word, when playing TF2, when entering an address in the address bar, etc. Only a restart can restore QWERTY. Even though the text input on TF2 will be scrambled, the TF2 controls work as though on QUERTY--'W' is still forward, even though it types out 'E'. Incidents can be anywhere from hours to weeks apart. I've personally only seen it happen inside TF2, but my sister swears it happens other times, too. Googling only returns 'how to switch to/learn Dvorak' pages. The computer runs Windows XP, and only happens to that computer. Can you help me stop Dvorak? posted by flibbertigibbet at 1:52 AM PST - 6 comments

NameThatMovieFilter: I need help remembering the name of an old black-and-white Christmas special from the BBC. Problem: it may not have been a Christmas special, or from the BBC! [more inside]posted by wsp at 12:27 AM PST - 9 comments

August 23

Please help me identify the singer of "The Patriot Game" in this YouTube video commercial for The Lieutenant of Inishmore. Bonus gratitude awarded if you can point me to an album on which it appears.
(Suggestions of recordings of other Irish Republican songs with similiar arrangements or in similar styles are welcome, but I'm most keen to find this one.) posted by bradlands at 10:27 PM PST - 8 comments

Did a journalist investigating the 2000 election in Florida die under suspicious circumstances? If you remember this story even slightly, help me find it. [more inside]posted by damehex at 10:06 PM PST - 10 comments

I need a wittier command for the dog trick "lick your chops," and the only alternative I can think of is "wipe your nose." Obviously I need your help! [more inside]posted by HotToddy at 9:51 PM PST - 16 comments

What started out as a casual interest, has now grown into an obsession...can anyone help me locate a nice dark blue corduroy jacket? Has to be new, not used, good quality, has to be dark blue, not brown, beige or black. Price range $300 to $800. I've looked on the web but have been unsuccessful. If anyone has made that purchase, or can point me in the right direction, would be greatly appreciated. posted by america4 at 9:06 PM PST - 13 comments

Have you ever seen a film that seemed like a heartwarming / triumph-of-the-human-soul / love-wins-in-the-end / good-guy-wins type of movie, but the morning after, you realize it convinced you to root for something you otherwise wouldn't? [without the help of tear-jerking music and well-placed one-liners?] What was the movie? I want examples I can watch! [more inside]posted by rubberfish at 7:58 PM PST - 53 comments

After thinking about it for half the summer, I am buying bikes for me and my wife. I need tips about buying a bike and also pointers on recreational biking in New York City. [more inside]posted by falameufilho at 5:29 PM PST - 14 comments

Can someone suggest a Windows utility to search for non-duplicated files on different hard drives? I've got multiple hard drives with tens of thousands of files on them. Many are duplicates, but not necessarily in the same directories. I need to identify the files that are on one drive, but not on the other, regardless of their location in the directory tree. [more inside]posted by cosmac at 5:14 PM PST - 6 comments

I like her a lot. We tried it out and she said that "we should just be friends." Problem is I see her a lot and I don't know what the hell is going on. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 4:03 PM PST - 20 comments

Help me, I want to be a corporate guinea pig! A friend of mine is headed to a city known for its preponderance of market testing (Columbus, OH), which got me thinking... are there any sites or blogs that could inform me as to chains undergoing market testing in particular regions of the country? I'd love to sample some of these wacky, soon-to-abandoned products of retail R&D departments everywhere... if only when I visit my friend in a few months. Any ideas as to how I can do this? posted by Keter at 3:59 PM PST - 3 comments

I recently did a Dumb Backup of my media library -- just bought another drive and copied the whole thing over. Since then, in the working library I've added a number of items within the general directory structure. Now I want to copy over just the new stuff to the backup drive, with everything winding up in the same-named directories over on that one. How do I do it? I'm using XP. [more inside]posted by slappy_pinchbottom at 3:02 PM PST - 10 comments

Photofilter: Which lens should I buy?
I'm in the market for a new prime. I've narrowed it down (for various reasons) to either Canon 85/1.8 or the new Sigma 50/1.4.
Do any fellow photogs out there have experience with either one or have a recommendation. Eventually, I want to go with the 85/1.2II but it'll be awhile before I have the cash.
I'm looking for something with good bokeh as I like to shoot wide open and get short DOF. Currently, I'm using an old OM Zuiko 50/1.4 to achieve that but since it's not autofocus, I miss more in-focus shots than I like.
In case you need to know to answer I shoot on a 30D and a 5D.
Thanks! posted by damiano99 at 1:03 PM PST - 14 comments

So I am a female in my 20s, just moved to NYC, and need to find a top rate hair salon that does natural-looking highlights--which, as all we women know, requires word-of-mouth recommendations. Please, beauty junkie mefites, help! [more inside]posted by pearl228 at 12:39 PM PST - 8 comments

Does anyone know of a website (or heck, even a brick and mortar store in the SF Bay Area) where I (in the US) can purchase wall maps of either the world or other countries with place names and labels in their native language and not English? [more inside]posted by Stryke11 at 12:26 PM PST - 8 comments

I was talking about the polls in the presidential election yesterday and someone mentioned that the polls are skewed towards McCain because the polling companies only call people who still have landlines, or generally older people (I guess). She claimed this was for geographic demographic reasons. Is it true that polling companies do this and don't call cell phones? posted by josher71 at 10:00 AM PST - 6 comments

I'm looking for a support group for partners/spouses of people with ADD/ADHD. I recognize some codependent tendencies in myself and I need to learn how to empower myself and unconditionally love my spouse. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 9:43 AM PST - 3 comments

Fresh water creek/lake swimming in Central NJ? Recently went swimming in Double Trouble Park in South Jersey (official stance there is "no swimming" but no one bothered us), looking for similar experience in central NJ. [more inside]posted by aleahey at 8:55 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm not quite hikikomori, but I'm scarily close, given I am neither Japanese, nor male.
I have no friends; I don't talk to anyone I'm not related to, and I haven't left my house since May. I feel like I have no purpose in life, and that, at almost 22, I'm far too old to not have done anything yet, but I can't leave my room long enough to do a damn thing. Help. Please. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 6:40 AM PST - 35 comments

Quick and easy - do you delete your photos after you've imported them to iPhoto? I'm a recent mac convert and I'm enjoying iPhoto but I'm not sure if one deletes the original photo after importing to iPhoto. Thoughts? posted by cubedweller at 2:54 AM PST - 7 comments

Nearly a year ago I blew out my right from tire on my 2001 Toyota Tacoma. It is also a PreRunner and TRD. My tires are Dayton Timberline AT (all terrain) size 265/75R16. I could only afford on at the time but knew I would be needing three more soon. I checked my tire size in order to get multiple estimates from all the local companies and I realized they had put on a 265/70R16 on accident. I have driven nearly 20,000 miles on the oddly matched tires and had them rotated 6 months ago. Should I be worried about and damage to my truck? I've called the company and they apologized and offered to give me 4 new tires, one for free and all at the 75 size. They also said they would match the competitors price which was 50 dollars cheaper because I was a loyal customer.He then assured me that no damaged could have been done from their error. They were unable to acquire the 4 new tires I originally had and are now looking for something of equivalently quality. Should I go to a mechanic or trust the tire place who already charged me for one tire and delivered a smaller cheaper one . posted by isopropyl at 1:15 AM PST - 10 comments

August 22

So. I'm looking for a video that was forwarded to me 4 or so years ago. It's about a guy working in a corporate office, who opens an email sent to him as a joke to find women having sex with ponies. Someone sees it on his screen, he gets fired, his gf leaves him, he moves in with his parents, etc. In the last scene he is dead and the mortician performs a dance on top of his body. Does anybody know the video I'm talking about? Is it anywhere online? posted by bokononito at 9:34 PM PST - 10 comments

How long does it take a couch to stop offgassing? I assembled a new Ikea Karlstad sofa
five days ago, and while the odor has decreased a bit, it still smells. Worse, there's some VOC that irritates my nose and throat after I sit on it for half an hour or so, which is rather worrying. (My wife gets the same 'acrid feeling' too.) [more inside]posted by sebastienbailard at 9:27 PM PST - 10 comments

Is there any evidence (scientific, anecdotal or otherwise) to suggest that cheap store-brand contact lens solution is inferior to name brands like Opti-Free or Renu? I'm specifically referring to multi-purpose solution for disposable soft contact lenses. What are your solution experiences? [more inside]posted by iamisaid at 7:11 PM PST - 24 comments

How small an apartment is too small for one person and two 1 year old kitties (they are litter mates and generally get along well)? Failing that, what should I look for in a kitty-friendly small apartment? [more inside]posted by Knicke at 5:40 PM PST - 15 comments

I'm trying to remember a PC game I played about 15 years ago. What I remember is an interface like Breakout or Pong with some logical puzzles to be completed with the ball going back and forth and passing over items that would then change states. The only puzzle I remember was entitled "Get Your Ducks In A Row" that involved just that, getting an array of ducks in a row. Does anyone remember this game? I'm in a bit of an abandonware mode right now, and would love to play it again. posted by avocet at 5:33 PM PST - 3 comments

Is there such a thing as version/revision control software for printed documents?
Software developers have version control for their source code, but what about people who write sales brochures? [more inside]posted by Chunder at 4:40 PM PST - 12 comments

Basically, I want to build mapping system, similar to google maps, using something like Map server & open layers. Take in my own image, such as a building map, define roads or “hallways”, and import points via a XML or RSS feed. I want an interface that I can take the xml feed and run it under the map in a box, displaying it under the map, allowing users to click on the event, and being able to see where they need to go, and using a current fixed position, being able to see how to get there. posted by BoldStepDesign at 4:37 PM PST - 7 comments

Why don't they make a special IUD that's a better size for nulliparous women? Is there anything I can do about the fact that I'm too small? [more inside]posted by slow graffiti at 4:24 PM PST - 10 comments

Anyone know where I can get whole grain barley bread? Possibly barley bread without wheat flour? Or perhaps a recipe that would allow me to make it myself. posted by exhilaration at 3:37 PM PST - 5 comments

I need a new desk chair.
My last desk chair is about 5 years old and on its last legs. It was a rather pricey chair, and I really can't afford that level of expense again.
I need a good, ergonomic chair for around $200. [more inside]posted by Gideon at 3:33 PM PST - 7 comments

Two related questions about an upcoming industry conference I'm volunteering at. First concerning talking to an exhibitor I interviewed with recently but haven't heard an offer or rejection from. Second is about approaching a speaker at the conference I really look up to. More inside ... [more inside]posted by anonymous at 1:53 PM PST - 3 comments

Have you seen the Staples big red button you can press and you get a loud "That was easy"? A co-worker has one and uses it sometimes. But what about a programmable maybe 4 X 4 or 5 X 5 button grid that you can put sound bites on and play at will? Could potentially make a great office toy, given the right type of office environment, and some tact.
Hasn't anyone created something like this? I'd like to buy one. (Everything I search for, like "Sound board", bring up the popular flash-based sound boards.) posted by GenTso at 1:38 PM PST - 7 comments

What content management system (CMS) does the site BNET.com use? Or, what is the currently available CMS that most closely matches the capabilities of this CMS? Bonus points to open source.... posted by omidius at 1:15 PM PST - 6 comments

If you take 10,000 random 40 year old US citizens right now, how many of them will be dead from cancer 20 years from now? I don't care about risk factors - the people are just selected randomly. Is there any way to get this number? Thanks. posted by crapples at 12:45 PM PST - 8 comments

Can you please recommend a dentist in Washington DC? I am almost certainly going to need a couple fillings, or maybe root canals, so I want to make sure I've got the right dentist for the job! [more inside]posted by allen8219 at 11:53 AM PST - 12 comments

Keep me entertained on my new 20" widescreen. How small can I encode my DVDs and what's the most cost-effective way to get broadcast TV on it? [more inside]posted by piedmont at 11:46 AM PST - 5 comments

I'm in my early 20's and asked a guy in my cooking class to hang out via email. The guy said we could but added, "I want to be clear that if we do hang out it will only be as friends." Does this mean I am on the "would not hit it" list? An internet profile say's he's into girls, single and looking for "friendship." posted by ShadePlant at 11:37 AM PST - 52 comments

My girlfriend has been diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma. I'm looking for any mefites that have been through this. She starts chemo this week. [more inside]posted by ambulance blues at 11:13 AM PST - 12 comments

Help me with this Urban Planning problem. I live in your typical bedroom community on the perimeter of a large metropolitan area. We have about 30,000 residents and a lot going for us in terms of community and location. We're going to get hooked up on the regions new commuter rail system, but it's on the far side of the community and I don't see it getting much use without a feeder system of some kind. Our regional mass transit system sucks otherwise; so we're on our own to develop an intra-community system that will keep our community vibrant, green, and support commuter rail. [more inside]posted by IndigoSkye at 10:34 AM PST - 14 comments

Botched AVG 8 install on Windows XP machine, now setup program (uninstall/repair/install) hangs. The partial install is causing problems. How can we get AVG off the machine when normal uninstall won't work? Details inside on the many things we've tried. [more inside]posted by LobsterMitten at 10:34 AM PST - 16 comments

Maximizing the benefits of my late-night bike rides....? I like to go out for a vigorous (to me) bike ride late at night (around 1am). I can do about 30km in 55 minutes or so. However, I'm at a loss as to how to ensure that I'm reaping the most benefit from my effort. [more inside]posted by dobbs at 10:09 AM PST - 11 comments

Today I had a reason to be looking up a family document, and once again I became fascinated looking at the old family certificates and documents I have in my files. [more inside]posted by zadcat at 9:53 AM PST - 15 comments

How should I develop simple dynamic web pages using perl?
Does anyone have any suggestions on how best to produce simple web pages in perl that execute logic (e.g., opening property documents to retrieve property values and saving back changes).
I am new to perl and would like some detail instructions or links to tutorials. Would a framework like Mason be overkill? posted by zzztimbo at 9:24 AM PST - 6 comments

Any good free (or really inexpensive) OCR software out there? I looked through the archives here but couldn't find any info that was quite right for my needs. [more inside]posted by Guy_Inamonkeysuit at 8:50 AM PST - 20 comments

Let's say a friend of mine was on telephone stand by jury duty in New York, and forgot to call Wednesday evening to see if she needed to report for Thursday. Cached through google search, are the ranges that were supposed to report Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday, but not for Thursday August 21, 2008. How can this friend check to see if she was supposed to report yesterday? [more inside]posted by eggplantia5 at 7:59 AM PST - 4 comments

We are driving from Michigan to Florida in October on our way to a Disney Cruise. Travelers consist of Me, Pregnant wife (will be 20 weeks in October) and our 3 year old daughter. We plan to take it easy and make a bunch of stops along the way. Any suggestions were to stop? Wife mentioned mammoth cave or a visit to a plantation in the south. We are on a budget so cheap and free would be ideal. posted by bleucube at 6:54 AM PST - 15 comments

I'm looking for ways to change my behavior. It's important for various reasons that I start reinforcing some behaviors and stopping others. I'm a procrastinator for one, and tend to start projects and not finish them for another. Is there a research backed methodology for doing so? [more inside]posted by diode at 6:51 AM PST - 11 comments

iTunes has suddenly started launching a new explorer window showing H:/Ipod_Control every time I play or move a file in Itunes. It's driving me nuts. How can I make it stop? posted by punkfloyd at 5:57 AM PST - 2 comments

Should I eat – er, solder – this? I'm building a preamp and I just discovered that I'm low on 0.1μF 50v ceramic disc capacitors. My question is about whether it's worth trying to salvage more from another (already disassembled) piece of equipment. [more inside]posted by Your Time Machine Sucks at 4:30 AM PST - 10 comments

[pedestrian-filter] According to a news-story in Swedens leading paper, there's a hidden, religious symbol in a ordinary pedestrian sign - a symbol that get's taped over in islamic countries. Calling all pedestrians to verify or falisfy this claim. [more inside]posted by Rabarberofficer at 1:57 AM PST - 8 comments

Help me make my apartment smell like a sexy man's home should smell! I'm especially looking for thoughts from women... What works? What doesn't? [more inside]posted by 2oh1 at 10:02 PM PST - 60 comments

Is there any practical way for an individual to get from Newport, Rhode Island to JFK airport for an 11:30am flight on Monday, September 2nd, 2008 without driving? Something like LimoLiner or a bus or something? posted by jeb at 8:11 PM PST - 7 comments

ManyRelatedQuestionsFilter: Can I convert an indoor stove from natural gas to propane? Is it safe? Is it difficult? Do I need to buy a special stove and/or special kit? How often would I have to change a standard propane tank? Does anyone have any experiences converting or cooking with a converted range? Should I convert a gas stove or rewire for an electric stove? Thanks!!! posted by walla at 8:00 PM PST - 5 comments

I worked in printing directly for nearly 11 years. My last job that had anything to do with the industry ended in 2002. In 2002, the design side was still pretty Mac-centric. How is it today? Have people stayed with OS X and Macs? Or have they gone to PCs? I am asking for a niece who is interested in persuing 2D illustration in her college studies. posted by tcv at 7:22 PM PST - 14 comments

I work for a performing arts ensemble/non-profit. We need to start a full redesign of our website (with a huge emphasis on multimedia). I will be project manager, but I haven't gone through a website redesign project like this before. This makes me a bit unsure about how to proceed. Lots of associated questions inside... [more inside]posted by soleiluna at 6:37 PM PST - 7 comments

Help my mum! Mum needs help transbribing lectures on PC. Are there any tricks or tips or nifty prggrams that can help her type, while being able to pause and rewind audio at the same time? [more inside]posted by robotot at 6:26 PM PST - 10 comments

I am trying to sync my Macbook's (Leopard) Address Book with my iPod Touch. The problem is that fields on the Mac like "spouse" and "children" do not show up on the Touch. Is there a fix for this? Thanks. posted by 4ster at 6:03 PM PST - 1 comment

Looks like my macbook's harddrive just failed. Sucks. Some of my data is not backed up. What should I do before taking it to the apple store? [more inside]posted by kickingtheground at 4:57 PM PST - 12 comments

Little Maltese and Papillion mix gets those nasty red/blackish fluids which come from his eyes and cake all over his muzzle. We try to clean it up but its really bad and gets embedded in his fur.
Any ideas on how to get rid of this stuff or to nip it in the bud? His once-a- month groomer does a good job on him, overall, but she can't offer anything on how to deal with these nasty stains. Thanks for any help. posted by Tullyogallaghan at 4:43 PM PST - 10 comments

Our Landlord wrongly kept 5700 of our 6100 dollar deposit. Things were just made up to charge us for. What can one do? Sticky situations inside [more inside]posted by Large Marge at 4:21 PM PST - 12 comments

Anyone know of any non-Radio-Shack retail outlets for electronic components near Philadelphia? I know there are tons of online outlets, but I'm looking for a brick and mortar supplier, and I need more variety than Radio Shack can offer. posted by potch at 4:20 PM PST - 2 comments

My daughter is on her 5th day of Kindergarten and it is quickly becoming apparent she is not being challenged at her reading level. What can I do to challenge her growing mind? [more inside]posted by jlowen at 4:11 PM PST - 43 comments

I've been staying for about a week at a friend of a friend's apartment while he's on vacation and pretty much out of contact. Every time I turn on the bath there's a yellow discoloration of the water for the first half-second or so, and then it becomes completely clear. I haven't noticed any like discoloration when I turn on any of the faucets or the shower, but I'm nevertheless getting worried about drinking the water here. Any ideas what this could be? Thanks in advance. posted by electric water kettle at 3:50 PM PST - 10 comments

Are there any made-to-order bobblehead sites? I've got an idea for a bobblehead that I'd like to offer to readers on my blog, but I don't want to incur the risk of buying 100 of them up front. There are loads of t-shirt sites that charge a flat fee, let the designer tack on a few bucks and then take care of all the rest, does such a thing exist for bobbleheads? posted by bflora at 12:53 PM PST - 12 comments

Help me convince my friend of a basic networking truth. He sent me an e-mail saying he was assigning static IPs to all the devices on his home network so the signal would be stronger. More details inside: [more inside]posted by arniec at 12:15 PM PST - 21 comments

Help! I need to find a documentary photograph related to the wave of anti-Semitic incidents in West Germany in the early 1960s. Surely the power of the green can help? [more inside]posted by scody at 11:59 AM PST - 13 comments

Hi there, I walk approx. 2 1/4 miles a day with a pedometer that shows steps only. Is there an accurate mile measurer that will show how many miles I've walked? If so where might I obtain one? posted by joaniek at 11:21 AM PST - 14 comments

I'm having trouble finding websites showing what's hot in the high-street fashion world for "normal" men - not those 6'4", emaciated, androgynous models designers always hire to make their clothes look good.
I'm 5'8", 85Kg, have fair skin, and a bit of a tummy. I know what kind of things to wear to make myself look slimmer but I don't know what the current trend is. I know it was layers last year, but that's about as much as I know.
Are there any websites/blogs that follow the trends which I can bookmark/subscribe to and keep my style up-to-date? posted by refactored at 11:03 AM PST - 10 comments

What career paths are available for someone in their 60's who has spent much of his life in and out of prison?
(the long, not too gory details inside) [more inside]posted by verevi at 10:55 AM PST - 11 comments

We can't boot into Windows XP, except in VGA mode, without the screen going black after the Windows XP "loading bar screen"; we can still hear everything, though. This is on an Intel iMac running Boot Camp, and the Mac side (Leopard) works fine, which leads me to believe this isn't a problem with hardware. [more inside]posted by mdonley at 10:29 AM PST - 6 comments

WinAVI crapped out on Vista Premium 64-bit. What other friendly converter such as WinAVI can I use instead to convert xvid/divx/etc to .vob files so I can burn them as a DVD with Nero and such?
Thanks in advance [more inside]posted by cheero at 10:28 AM PST - 6 comments

My girlfriend has expanded her theater management business, hired some employees, and wants to have a file server, have a firewall, and have remote access to the office network. Can I do all this with a Dell PowerEdge 500Mhz PIII? If so.. [more inside]posted by pegstar at 10:17 AM PST - 9 comments

I'm looking for a companion point and shoot camera to my much-loved SLR. I'm looking for a camera with a super simple (even dumbed down) interface, a small size so I can keep it in my purse at all times, the ability to easily shoot short movies (very important!), and as cheap as possible. What I don't care about: photo quality. [more inside]posted by warble at 9:39 AM PST - 17 comments

In about a week I'll be moving with some friends across multiple state lines, and it's the first big move any of us have ever made. Suffice it to say we're all a little nervous, so I'd like to commemorate the occasion with a special mix tape. Specifically, I'm looking for any songs about the pain and struggle of moving to and/or living in a new place. [more inside]posted by ictow at 9:07 AM PST - 47 comments

I've been recruited by a large firm in the US, who are going to relocate me to their offices in Washington. How do I deal with your weird health-care system? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 8:26 AM PST - 33 comments

I have concentration, focus, work efficiency, and motivation issues. I am much more motivated at this point in my life than ever before, but working inefficiently and focus issues make it difficult to sustain. I am looking for lifestyle changes, mental exercises, diet changes, and maybe an inexpensive over-the-counter supplements to help sharpen my problem solving and information processing skills. [more inside]posted by Niomi at 7:13 AM PST - 16 comments

My girlfriend has a GHD hair straightener purchased in the USA, it's labelled "120Vac 35W", I want to use it in Ireland (where the standard voltage is 220Vac). Is it safe to use this with a step-down (220V -> 110V) transformer? [more inside]posted by nfg at 6:55 AM PST - 11 comments

I've just had 3 white enamel fillings in the bottom-left corner of my mouth. Looking in the mirror, I now have a small bluish-gray mark at the nearest 'peak' of each molar. Should I be worried? [more inside]posted by Kirn at 4:46 AM PST - 3 comments

Getting to know you... I'm new to client service but have extensive client-side experience in the marketing field. Just joined an agency and the client complained to my boss that I'm 'too professional' in my demeanor. How do I fix this? [more inside]posted by urbanette at 3:00 AM PST - 3 comments

I've just laid out money on a very expensive book, and to my chagrin it arrived with its pages warped and wavy from humidity (I live in a very humid city in the southeastern US), even though it was shrinkwrapped. How should I go about fixing this? posted by Merzbau at 12:52 AM PST - 16 comments

Rogers Mobile Locked my Blackberry Pearl and Threw away the key, what are some ways for me to unlock my phone. Links and direct solutions are more than welcome I can provide my IMEP key if anyone knows someone with a calculator but thats the only way i can find online and i know there are other, better ways to do this. [more inside]posted by Chamunks at 10:41 PM PST - 2 comments

I have to listen to the radio in order to fall asleep.
I have used WHYY 91 FM in Philadelphia as my crutch for the past 8+ tears. We live near Princeton, NJ, and I have always had good reception through several previous address changes.
We moved 2 weeks ago, literally 4 houses away fron our old place, I have perfect reception all day, but sometime after 1:00 in the morning, I lose the signal, and the sudden silence can actually wake me up. I've gone online and confirmed thathe station is broadcasting -- I can stream the audio on my computer -- but no signal comes through the radio.
Then, at 8:30, I wake up and there is a normal signal again. I am literally losing sleep over this, so would appreciate any suggestions, explanations or help, posted by mmf at 9:50 PM PST - 15 comments

Is there a way to stream video to my Wii from my Mac using VLC? I am currently running Orb from the virtual windows machine on the mac I access via vmware fusion, but I am not too impressed with the video quality. posted by jules1651 at 8:29 PM PST - 5 comments

I'm heading to San Francisco to go work for six-seven months - and i'll be working in downtown San Francisco. Looking for a good place to live (with roommates), and I need some advice. [more inside]posted by waylaid at 7:24 PM PST - 10 comments

Help! I need a cute and quirky name for a small baking business - more catering than not, and definitely on the cute-and-quirky side, since it specializes in cupcakes. [more inside]posted by FritoKAL at 7:00 PM PST - 60 comments

For those of you in areas that have multiple teams in the your area, like New York has the Giants and Jets, Chicago has the Cubs and White Sox, and Los Angeles has the Lakers and the Clippers, how did you choose which team to be a fan of? posted by toaster at 6:04 PM PST - 63 comments

Is there a self publishing service kind of like lulu.com but which lets you "brand" the storefront with your own stylesheet and logo? One that lets customer buy electronic copies as well as printed versions? One that you've had good experiences with? [more inside]posted by tomwheeler at 5:45 PM PST - 6 comments

Anybody out there proficient with Apple OS X Voiceover, the interface for sight-impaired users? My MacBook Pro screen is completely dead but the computer is alive. I want to use Voiceover to navigate to the Sharing Preferences and turn on screen sharing so I can access the screenless computer across the network. [more inside]posted by timwindsor at 4:47 PM PST - 9 comments

Is there any regulation governing how long an employer can take to process a terminated employee's request to withdraw her money from the employer's 401k plan and send to a roll-over IRA (there was 0 employer contribution to the 401k)? [more inside]posted by mayann at 3:56 PM PST - 2 comments

I'm considering upgrading my internet service. I currently have basic DSL from AT&T bundled with a landline. Today a couple of guys with "AT&T uverse solutions provider" ID's came to the door and want to sell me this Uverse service. I'm suspicious. [more inside]posted by pjern at 2:44 PM PST - 10 comments

Due to travel I've missed out on the last 3 episodes of The Venture Bros, is there any possible way I could view these episodes before the season 3 dvd comes out ? [more inside]posted by carefulmonkey at 2:38 PM PST - 12 comments

How would you choose between leaving a girl after 5 years that you could be happy with in marriage, but who doesn’t want to wait for you, in order to follow your dream of checking out day to day life in the country you were born. Fear of regret and resentment later in life a big factor here.(long explanation follows) [more inside]posted by talljamal at 1:38 PM PST - 19 comments

Double, double toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble. Halloween is fast approaching and I need help creating some apothecary style props from the Bard's well known witches chant based on the introduction to That Scottish Play. Most of my audience isn't going to remember much past "eye of newt and toe of frog" but being a geek about details I'd like to try to create a tableaux of the entire contents of that cauldron. [more inside]posted by rosebengal at 1:33 PM PST - 11 comments

I currently own the educational version (no real difference beyond the price) of Adobe CS2 Premium Web Bundle which includes Macromedia Studio 8. I need to upgrade to CS3 for school, but I can't find the "bundle" that has the programs I need. [more inside]posted by niles at 1:16 PM PST - 5 comments

I am editing together a "best of" wedding montage for a friend's anniversary. Give me a piece of music that speaks of beauty, love triumphant, joy and happiness, with a good measure of mysticism, mystery, or, uh, ethereal-ness (?). Bonus points if we can make 'em cry... [more inside]posted by Spyder's Game at 1:01 PM PST - 50 comments

Why do some successful salesmen get fired by their employers after a really big commission sale? Logically, one would suppose that employers would want to keep talented salesmen. What incentives would an employer have to do so? posted by Zipf at 12:39 PM PST - 19 comments

Midi keyboard software experts! I'd like to hook up an old midi piano keyboard to my XP laptop and learn to play. Is there an outstanding software package that teaches piano skills? The internet based reviews I've seen so far range from lukewarm to chilly. [more inside]posted by bbranden1 at 12:33 PM PST - 1 comment

If I host 2 domains (for example, www.work.com and www.family.com) on the same basic Dreamhost hosting package, is there any way for someone -- other than Dreamhost -- to associate the two domains? posted by probablysteve at 11:37 AM PST - 18 comments

I have an Excel pivot table for sales performance data. I want to break that down for regional managers so that they only have access to their own offices' data while preserving the nice formatting that the pivot table provides. Is there an easy way to do that? [more inside]posted by willnot at 11:16 AM PST - 3 comments

I'm panicking right now about the prospects going back to grad school at the end of the summer. I've lost the ability to think straight about my situation. I need some help. [more inside]posted by NormandyJack at 11:10 AM PST - 24 comments

I passed my U.S. citizenship test last month (woo!). But I still haven't received notice of when my swearing-in ceremony will be, and D.C.'s voter registration deadline is coming up (Oct. 4). Can I somehow officially get my citizenship without waiting for the official swearing-in ceremony? I really don't want to miss out on being able to vote just because of this stupid delay. [more inside]posted by hazelshade at 10:14 AM PST - 3 comments

I just discovered an absent-minded guest left a damp towel on top of my futon, which of course got the futon damp. It was there about a day before I discovered it, and now both the towel and the futon have a very slight musty smell. I figure I can run the towel and the futon cover through the wash with some baking soda or something to get rid of the smell there, but I'm concerned about the futon (which is cotton with a foam core). Should I just let it finish drying out and hope for the best, or is there something I can do now to prevent a lingering odor and/or futon ickyness? posted by I Said, I've Got A Big Stick at 10:01 AM PST - 9 comments

I am looking for a small I'm-going-away/she's-starting-middle-school gift for my 11-year-old sister. I'm hoping to spend <$30, and I prefer something that can be engraved, but preferably not jewelry. Anything that means "I'll miss you" or "congratulations on starting to grow up"? Any keepsake you would have loved at 11? posted by i_am_a_fiesta at 9:52 AM PST - 15 comments

Remember this Wired article about "computer teams" analyzing horse races in Asia? What became of that? Were the theories sound? What exactly were they doing? Are there any other articles, academic or otherwise, about modeling horse races? [more inside]posted by geoff. at 8:45 AM PST - 5 comments

We're reconfiguring our house to make room for a second child. We'd like to continue to have someplace comfortable for guests to sleep, but we're short on space. [more inside]posted by larsks at 8:18 AM PST - 22 comments

What sort of agreements should I make or information should I consider before moving into an apartment that would be used as a daycare during the day when my roommate and I aren't around? [more inside]posted by andoatnp at 7:56 AM PST - 34 comments

How do I deal with HIV test window period anxiety? I had a risky encounter (unprotected sex) with a girl last week -- I trusted her when she said she'd been tested, which she told me on the way to the bedroom (had she not said anything I wouldn't have asked, and just used a condom). Before the encounter, I thought I knew her pretty well as she'd been a friend for a few months. Shortly afterwards she announces that she has a new boyfriend and cuts off all contact with me.
I know I should get tested, but HIV tests aren't conclusive until after 3 months since it takes time for the antibodies to show up. I wouldn't be so worried if she'd still be talking to me.
My question is ... how do I deal with the anxiety for the next three months? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:03 AM PST - 22 comments

As a gift for my husband, I took some saucy pictures. The pictures are nothing by the standards of the internet, but not the type of thing I'd be comfortable sending to Target or Wal-Mart to print out. Are there any discrete online digital photo printing services you'd recommend? Or should I just buy a photo printer? Which one? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:03 AM PST - 16 comments

We're taking a road trip from Boston to Michigan this weekend, and would like to record some video along the way, just for fun. Problem is, we've got a cheap digicam with a lousy built-in mic. How can we record audio (two people talking, mostly) on the übercheap? [more inside]posted by SamuelF at 6:56 AM PST - 2 comments

It's been 25 years since the Violent Femmes released their self titled debut, and the thing still sounds as if it was written last week. What explains its timeless quality? [more inside]posted by bunnytricks at 6:49 AM PST - 22 comments

I've just bought a pair of Clic glasses that open at the centre of the frame, held together by a magnet. Is there any reason why I wouldn't want a Neodymium magnet on the bridge of my nose? posted by ikp at 5:52 AM PST - 7 comments

I need a download of the EDS cat herding video. I'm having a difficult time finding it available for download. Does anyone have a copy or know where I can download it for embedding in a powerpoint presentation? posted by Juicylicious at 4:36 AM PST - 6 comments

How does a husband and a wife deal with nagging and the resultant arguments? My wife is a self-admitted nag. I am a self-admitted procrastinator. She likes to make decisions and do things now. I would rather sleep on it and let things develop a bit. I don't have a problem with leaving a dish or two in the sink. She needs the place to be near spotless. I am not a slob. She is not anal-retentive. When she wants me to hang curtains, she wants it done now. If I need something done, I will do it myself on a deadline I feel will not impact the situation. I don't think this problem is unique to our relationship. How have you and your wife better dealt with this proverbial problem? A good answer to this question is not 'just pick up your sh*t!'. posted by kaizen at 4:23 AM PST - 38 comments

August 19

I'm seeking recommendations for a wordpress designer. For a culture/design/style blog. Fresh & modern look desired. Assume I would like someone to do all of the work (back end & graphics)! Who's good out there? Where's a good place to look? posted by teststrip at 10:33 PM PST - 2 comments

I'd like to get a zafu and zabuton[?] for meditation, but I'd like to actually sit on a couple to find out what I find comfortable. Where can I try out and buy a zafu and zabuton, in person, in or near Toronto? posted by mendel at 8:56 PM PST - 4 comments

How do you choose tires for a car? In particular, what is the best deal on all-season long lasting tires for a 2004 Toyota Matrix XR Front Wheel Drive, size 215/50/R17 in Southern Ontario. [more inside]posted by Chuckles at 7:49 PM PST - 15 comments

Tien Tsin vs. Arbol - Can I use Chili de Arbol in place of the traditional Tien Tsin peppers that I know chinese food recipes call for? Chili de Arbol was the only thing I could find in my (rural, Texas) area easily. posted by SpecialK at 7:36 PM PST - 1 comment

Where should one invest 1 million dollars for guaranteed income ? I have been reading that there are Fidelity and Vanguard income funds guaranteed for life.
Please suggest how/where to invest 1 million dollars for at least 10% interest per year.
Thank You.
endless posted by endlessknot at 7:34 PM PST - 23 comments

This one is for the extroverts. As someone who has struggled with social anxiety/shyness to varying degrees my entire life, I'm very curious to know what your inner dialogue is like? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:22 PM PST - 33 comments

I'm looking at online degrees (needed for work), and I'd like to know if a Masters in education from British universities are considered valid (or equal to) for employment in America. [more inside]posted by Ghidorah at 6:47 PM PST - 7 comments

Mrs Baggers and I have just bought a house, and one of the rooms has walls covered with this ugly, bumpy stucco like stuff (photo here). What's the best option for getting rid of it? Should we sand it down or try and cover it over? posted by baggers at 6:45 PM PST - 20 comments

I am looking for good self-help audiobooks/books on cd for building self-esteem and fighting depression. I'm not religious, just looking for something inspiring (scientific validity also a plus). posted by veterinarian at 6:36 PM PST - 7 comments

I think the mothership may be in Boulder, Co and I have a burning desire to go there. I'm so in love with the place that I'm probably missing the bad stuff. Is there anything bad about Boulder? [more inside]posted by dejah420 at 6:08 PM PST - 30 comments

How do I find the complete lyrics of "Sometime I Wonder" aka "Will I Ever Rest?" I have a recording by Mahalia Jackson but cannot understand some of the words. posted by woman at 6:04 PM PST - 2 comments

I am making a chapbook/zine that needs to be completed by noon on Thursday. I need help on how to format Microsoft Word so I can get the job done, printed and out to public. [more inside]posted by goalyeehah at 4:32 PM PST - 15 comments

BostonFilter: I need to get to the Prudential tomorrow, and I'm coming from out of state. I'll probably take the T rather than drive in directly. Help me not get lost! [more inside]posted by fogster at 4:31 PM PST - 14 comments

How do I log in as www? I am running a bunch of scripts on my webserver/svn server, but they are having some problems, so as a troubleshooting measure, I would like to log in as the user so I can test scripts and other random things. [more inside]posted by brent_h at 4:26 PM PST - 7 comments

I'm leaving shortly on a roadtrip with someone I've been seeing but I think the relationship is cooling off and now I'm feeling ill about the trip...help! [more inside]posted by anonymous at 4:23 PM PST - 10 comments

Are there any documented instances of disaster/apocalypse training exercises where the participants could not be sure if it was real or not? [more inside]posted by Happy Dave at 4:20 PM PST - 13 comments

I need to find out the name of the uncommon kidney disease that my mother had so that I can be tested for it. The problem is she died in 1997 so I have no idea where (or if) any medical records are being kept. Can anyone tell me how to find out? Details and a description of the disease inside [more inside]posted by Kioki-Silver at 3:43 PM PST - 11 comments

I have made several purchases from a small on-line company. They have always shipped the order out correctly and on time. I just received and email from them stating that they had a problem with my payment. If they genuinely had a problem, I want to help them fix it. If this is a scam, I don't want to be an idiot. I'm confused by them telling me not to reply to the email, but to send a new one. I would appreciate any help or advice that anyone could give me. [more inside]posted by colt45 at 3:37 PM PST - 12 comments

How can I store my banjo long-term to preserve the best possible sound? I have a hard case (not a soft "gig bag") and the instrument is in a dark closet. We keep the humidity between 40-55% whenever possible... [more inside]posted by homelystar at 2:33 PM PST - 4 comments

My recently married friend is having some doubts about her name change. If you or your spouse did a name change after you got married, could you offer some insights about her situation? [more inside]posted by donnagirl at 2:22 PM PST - 14 comments

Any recommendations for a movie to show my Jewish youth group (grades 8-12), when we meet on Talk Like a Pirate Day? Bonus points if it's either a) Depp-free, and/or b) tangentially related to the themes of the high holidays. I love my job. posted by ericbop at 1:54 PM PST - 19 comments

The last few days I've noticed that my lips, mainly the in-my-mouth part, have been feeling kind of numb after I brush my teeth, and they have like a sticky, mucus-y membrane on them all day, as well. Don't think I've ever had this before...any ideas on what this is and how to get rid of it? posted by rbf1138 at 1:11 PM PST - 11 comments

Bandannas. I love them. I wear them to garden or anytime I'm going to sweat. The problem, though, is that whole gang thing. Help me sort this out. What colors can I wear? Or should I just avoid bandannas and get some other kind of kerchief? [more inside]posted by Stewriffic at 1:03 PM PST - 33 comments

Wedding Shoes that Won't Kill My Feet. I am getting married in November. I have a medical condition that makes my left foot swell to about three times its normal size. [more inside]posted by bananafish at 12:59 PM PST - 20 comments

My new grad school class (of about 140, if it matters) needs an easy way to post and share categorized notes, study guides, and sundry other files and documents with one another. What simple, easy-to-use open-source Web knowledgebase and/or document-management software might work well for this purpose? posted by killdevil at 12:51 PM PST - 7 comments

I have two routers, one wired one wireless. The wired router is connected to the internet and the wireless router is connected to the wired router. My iPhone and MacBook are both connected to the internet via the wireless router and in turn the wired router. I'm trying to get them to see each other. How? [more inside]posted by anglaise at 12:27 PM PST - 6 comments

I'm trying to add a username in Wordpress that has an apostrophe in it (like Jerry O'Connell). It's telling me this is not allowed. Can I work around this? [more inside]posted by kerning at 12:25 PM PST - 9 comments

In my office there is a small conference room, 81"x96", maybe 18' ceiling. The walls are sheetrock. The echo is extremely irritating. In order to quiet the room a bit I want to mount squares of corkboard, 12"x12"x1/4". I will use 12 to 20 of these squares on one of the 81" walls.
Will this be reasonably effective in lessening the echo? [more inside]posted by ben242 at 11:30 AM PST - 17 comments

Please help us identify this song and/or band. The group was/is French, or at least sung in French. The CD was in our county library's collection in the early 90's (but beyond that we have little idea of when it was released). The album was not classical or other clear genre: it seemed like it might be French pop.
The song in particular features a two- or three-voiced vocal track, accompanied by the sound of a chainmail-gloved hand, rhythmically punching a large bowl of gravel. The effect eerily replicated the sound of a marching army. The vocals were dirge-like. [more inside]posted by CitizenD at 10:18 AM PST - 7 comments

Looking for mp3s to use for my alarm clock. I'd like to wake up to a 5-10 minute track that progressively gets louder so that my awakening feels more natural. [more inside]posted by alligatorman at 9:42 AM PST - 29 comments

I have a three person Mac OS X office where we need to have remote access to about 4GB of files. I have looked around extensively for a solution and so far have not found an acceptable one. We have tried to use Back to my Mac and Apple Remote Desktop but the other two users are not that technically adept and it seem too complicated for them. Out problem is further complicated by the fact that we sometimes access the same files, so we can have version problems as well. Back to my Mac has never worked period.
Could I use Amazon S3 storage? And manage with Subversion or Git? Are there reasonable clients for Subversion and Git. Drobo with network card seem over the top and too costly.
Having the files on the cloud would be a perfect solution, however a local solution that could be accessed from anywhere will work as well.
To further complicate we are thinking of having one person access via PC. posted by thinktwice at 9:34 AM PST - 8 comments

I'll be in San Francisco in two weeks (Aug 30-Sep 1). What are some geeky things to see (without a car)? I've already covered the Exploratorium and City Lights several times, but that's the sort of thing my tastes run towards. posted by dmd at 9:21 AM PST - 23 comments

Asking for a friend: What is a very good technical text for understanding current and future wireless telephony standards, beginning with the basics about CDMA and TDMA and covering through 3G, LTE, LTE-Advanced, WiMax and beyond? [more inside]posted by Pastabagel at 9:05 AM PST - 2 comments

What sort of men's underwear is socially acceptable (or perhaps even fashionable) for people in their 20s? What's to avoid? Bonus points if it can be had cheaply. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 8:49 AM PST - 61 comments

Help me keep cool! Ok, I'm a bit OCD about this I realize. I'm wondering if there's some way to test the AC in my apartment to see if it's working properly. Is there a special thermometer to use to test the air temperature coming out of the vents? If so, what should that temperature be? [more inside]posted by odayoday at 8:41 AM PST - 8 comments

Mark Leyner wrote a puff piece about the Women of CNN (or HNN) in the early/mid 90's. It ends with a really great thing about the world ending while he is soothed by their explaining it to him. I can't find it online. Anyone know this piece and what publication it ran in (and when)? Or--this would be swell--seen it reproduced somewhere online? posted by crush-onastick at 8:33 AM PST - 9 comments

I'd like to create a bootable backup of my MacBook's hard drive 150GB hard drive. I've got a 500GB drive, but it's in an Ubuntu server on my LAN. Is there a good way to back up a bootable backup to another computer? [more inside]posted by nasty, brutish, and of average height at 8:15 AM PST - 5 comments

Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Statview. Anyone know how to set up a datasheet to do this analysis in this program? I know this is an incredible longshot. [more inside]posted by gaspode at 7:43 AM PST - 4 comments

Database Olympics: File Maker Pro vs. MySQL! Help us pick a database system (Anko or Firebrand). Which do you think is superior to run a print publication database? [more inside]posted by spakto at 7:16 AM PST - 6 comments

Hotel points, airline points, credit card points, fast food points -- is there an app out there that helps you track all the various loyalty/awards programs? [more inside]posted by milkdropcoronet at 6:48 AM PST - 5 comments

In Outlook 2003, all my appointments are being put on calendars associated with my *.pst files, instead of the calendar in the main Exchange folder. It's totally screwing up my workdays, as you might guess. Details inside. [more inside]posted by stupidsexyFlanders at 6:30 AM PST - 8 comments

I have a Macbook Pro with OS X and Vista on it. I also have the opportunity to borrow a USB GPS device. The plan is to drive around Estonia and Latvia, so decent maps of Eastern Europe are a must. What GPS software should I use? posted by A Kingdom for a Donkey at 5:35 AM PST - 5 comments

hello all; I am trying to locate a previous iteration of the HDMI cable. it seems that my Akai TV does not function with the current flavors of HDMI (1.3). the tech support desk at Akai tells me that I need to use a 1.1 or 1.2 cable, and that they are readily available. they are not. I've tried Radio Shack and ebay (admitedly, that isn't a comprehensive search); just trying to cut through the clutter here. thanks in advance. posted by rxbert at 3:18 AM PST - 8 comments

August 18

I'm thinking of going back to school to study public history, but I'm not sure what angle yet. Tell me all the juicy (read: horrible) details about being an archivist. The stuff I'm not likely to get from schools or job descriptions. posted by Roman Graves at 11:02 PM PST - 10 comments

There's a wing place in town called 'Just Wing'n it' that has a wing sauce called "Hot Boston" that I crave. Im posting in hopes that someone who works / worked there can tell me how to make it. posted by Hellafiles at 8:46 PM PST - 6 comments

Music recommendations in a very particular vein (well, maybe two):
1. Do Make Say Think and A Silver Mt. Zion collide in a near-fatal accident, the honorable Steve Reich presiding. What (band) results from this impossibly gorgeous union?
2. Rachel's is exquisitely beautiful, yet I've found nothing in the world like them. Is there anything, anywhere at all, that manages to sound something like Rachel's and something like Arovane's "Tides" album? I think it would blow my mind...
If it isn't immediately obvious, I like post-rock with purpose, and BEATS. If you can't answer either question, throw me something exciting and intriguing in that vein worth checking out :) [more inside]posted by dmaterialized at 8:21 PM PST - 48 comments

I'd like to get a copy EC (or similar publisher) comic about a comic book letterer who murders an inker. I haven't had any response from any of the of forums I've asked in. Ghoulish story synopsis ahead... [more inside]posted by bonobothegreat at 8:19 PM PST - 6 comments

I need a pinata before Saturday, where in the tubes does one order such a thing and how do I tell a good pinata from a bad one? Any fun ideas for fillings? Additional creative queries inside. [more inside]posted by willie11 at 7:39 PM PST - 18 comments

I just got rejected by a girl whom I was certain had wanted me to make a move. I am very confused now. If anyone wants to venture a guess as to what happened I would appreciate it. Long story after the jump. [more inside]posted by thescientificmethhead at 5:29 PM PST - 96 comments

This should be easy, but I can't make it work. I simply want to make a DVD containing a slideshow of my photos that will play on a regular DVDplayer and TV. Background music and titles are a bonus. [more inside]posted by Northwest at 5:22 PM PST - 7 comments

How do I find the names of several Star Trek Episodes? I know what happens in the episodes, but I don't know the names of the actual episodes. ex: In one TNG episode, 4 or 5 crew member go to the holodeck and have the computer make a table or bed they all dreamed they were tortured on. I've got several questions like this! [more inside]posted by libraryman at 4:37 PM PST - 12 comments

RidiculousHypotheticalQuestion: If someone were to drink a mouthful of HIV/AIDS infected blood, what would the chances of becoming infected be? (This was spawned from one of those ridiculous back-and-forths, about infected candy, at work.) posted by P.o.B. at 4:26 PM PST - 13 comments

4 people looking for a camping spot this weekend (out of car/ not hike-in)
2-3 hours WEST or NORTHWEST of Atlanta (we're trying to avoid rain from Fay)
preferably at/near a body of water
allows alcohol
(bonus: easy/moderate short hikes and/or falls, not tons of people)
any suggestions? please and thank you! posted by mrmarley at 3:31 PM PST - 6 comments

Every 3,000 miles, I change the motor oil. But what about the house? I need a home repair and maintenance schedule? I'm looking for the best books and online resources that describe optimum home repair schedules and practices. [more inside]posted by Cool Papa Bell at 3:31 PM PST - 9 comments

I am looking for a bicycle floor pump that is particularly slim, suitable for packing inside a Trico Iron case with my road bike for air travel. The pump I have now is too fat in one dimension. [more inside]posted by thewalrus at 3:26 PM PST - 7 comments

What are some good 70's and 80's songs suitable for playing in a pharmacy?
My father owns a family pharmacy and we have an iPod with nice 70's and 80's songs set to play for the customers. Can you tell me some that I can add to the playlist? Remember nice calm easy listening ones are best, and no dirty or bad songs about dying etc.. To get an idea of some of the songs I have here's a link to the playlist so far.
Specific songs are great, but I will also take artists. Try not to give duplicates. If 10 people give 10 songs that's 100 new songs! Thanks! posted by ptsampras14 at 3:15 PM PST - 42 comments

COBRA (health) question: If I currently have health coverage through my employer for Employee(me) and Spouse, can I COBRA for Single only or do I have to keep it at Employee/Spouse? [more inside]posted by mmangano at 1:41 PM PST - 4 comments

I have an old 3" memory foam full size mattress topper laying out in my garage. Looking for some DIY projects or ideas as to what I can do with this foam, as opposed to tossing it out or trying to sell on craigslist. [more inside]posted by ShootTheMoon at 12:54 PM PST - 8 comments

I'm hoping to find and own this stuffed animal. It is a large eyed orange thing with arms, legs, and a small tuff of dark hair on top of its head. Any ideas on who makes or sells it? [more inside]posted by Feisty at 12:41 PM PST - 7 comments

I'm trying to determine the value of my Fujitsu Tablet pc. It is a Fujitsu Lifebook T2010. I bought it in May ('08), and have barely used it since June... Specs to follow: [more inside]posted by smartless at 12:14 PM PST - 8 comments

I'm planning on moving to DC with a guy I've been friends with since junior year of college (3 years ago). I graduated and immediately accepted a position and have worked in said position for one year and am now moving on to another one. For that same year, he sat around at home and was too lazy to find an engineering job and worked a few $10 an hour construction jobs. I'm having mixed feelings about getting a place with this guy. [more inside]posted by decrescendo at 12:08 PM PST - 52 comments

About 9 years ago, my brother and I saw a short animated film on the Independent Film Channel (he says). It was about floating robot-things residing in a place similar to that of the one Homer went to the time he slipped into the third dimension. Our heads are exploding, because we cannot figure out what this freaking short was named, or anything else about it. [more inside]posted by Coatlicue at 11:55 AM PST - 4 comments

In Wisconsin, what does someone mean when they say their land is on the Federal Homestead Act, and how does that make their land different from mine? [more inside]posted by mamaraks at 11:33 AM PST - 5 comments

Montreal Housing Crunch Filter: I still don't have an apartment and I'm supposed to show up in Montreal in two weeks. How the heck do I nab a place for a single female McGill student, when I'm out of province? [more inside]posted by Phalene at 11:22 AM PST - 16 comments

After looking at this map, I'm curious as to why South Asian and Middle Eastern countries are vastly underrepresented in the Olympic games. What exactly are the economic, political, religious, or cultural factors that play into this? posted by Christ, what an asshole at 11:20 AM PST - 19 comments

I'm developing a site for a new nonprofit that would like to accept online donations. I'd love advice on which sites I can sign them up with to accept donations with the least amount of fees. Is there anything better than PayPal - perhaps a site specifically dedicated to nonprofits? Thanks! posted by AONeal79 at 10:55 AM PST - 14 comments

I'm working with an Active Directory domain that has had a rash of PCs losing trust with the domain. Whenever users log on to the domain and try to access shares on the server, they are denied access. I've found a way to fix this, but would like to know the root problem. [more inside]posted by ijoyner at 9:58 AM PST - 5 comments

I know nothing of photography but want to buy a telephoto lens for my brother's Canon Powershot S3 IS as a surprise gift. I have no idea where to start; heck, I don't even know if they make telephoto lenses for that particular camera. Please advise. posted by jackypaper at 9:56 AM PST - 4 comments

Berlin / Germany internet installation: I might stay a few months in an apartment in Berlin, where there currently is no internet connection installed. What (if any) are my options? [more inside]posted by gmm at 9:27 AM PST - 14 comments

A friend is writing a very silly musical version of a 90's era B-movie. He's determined to stage a production of this masterpiece, but it seems doubtful that he could get permission from the film's owners. Can he get away with this? [more inside]posted by kc8nod at 9:05 AM PST - 17 comments

Ok, so: esoterica time. I'm curious about hazardous materials. Where can I find out (statistically, not anecdotally) what are the most common types of hazmat circulating out there in each class, by volume, in the U.S.? [more inside]posted by kittyprecious at 8:23 AM PST - 11 comments

I have a phpBB forum. I want to add a multi-user blog on the same sate as this forum. The catch is that I want the comments on the blog posts to instead become forum topics automagically. In other words, rather than commenting on the blog itself, they'd be commenting on an auto-created forum post. [more inside]posted by vraxoin at 8:20 AM PST - 3 comments

We're looking to purchase a house with a not so great exterior shape. Where do we start to help visualize exterior renovation possibilities and building costs? Some pics inside for those who want to give their thoughts... [more inside]posted by remlapm at 7:57 AM PST - 5 comments

Mac/PC Internet Sharing: My work PC (running XP) has an internet connect, but no wireless. Is there a way to connect my MacBook Air to my PC via USB so that my Mac can use my PC's internet connection? [more inside]posted by lionelhutz5 at 7:49 AM PST - 11 comments

Great MeFites, I come bearing but a humble request. I bought a MacBook Pro about six months before Leopard was released. When it finally came out, I installed it on a partition on an external drive, which I would boot from (because OS X is awesome like that, amirite?) so I could test out all my apps. Now I'm ready to commit to Leopard full-time - what's the best way to go about transplanting my Leopard partition? [more inside]posted by indiewizard at 7:41 AM PST - 6 comments

How do I de-stress during and after an awful, expensive vacation? I am in the midst of a disappointing, stressful vacation and will be returning in a couple of days to my stressful, low-paying job. The breaking point is near. Help it to not happen. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 7:33 AM PST - 34 comments

What is the best way for someone without HTML knowledge (and no wish to learn) to make simple edits to an existing website? We used to use Adobe Contribute -- are there cheaper alternatives? [more inside]posted by Idcoytco at 7:29 AM PST - 6 comments

Strange as it might sound, I am compiling a list of rooms. I am eager to draw upon the travels, explorations, and creative minds of metafilter to help flesh out the list. [more inside]posted by foxy_hedgehog at 7:24 AM PST - 27 comments

What news am I missing at the Olympics - what has been covered up or ignored by the Chinese regulators providing the video feed to NBC etc? I have to imagine there have been some outbursts or protests and the Chinese are not letting the media cover it (at least on live TV). Is there a good site noting these occurrences, or have the games just gone off nearly flawlessly? (excepting the drum tower murder last week.) posted by pithy comment at 7:10 AM PST - 6 comments

Eye Problem Filter: My mother (age 62) woke up today with blurred vision in one eye. Over the next couple hours it changed to double vision (in one eye, not in both) and now it's getting better but still a little blurry. She has no other health problems. What's wrong? [more inside]posted by MaddyRex at 7:08 AM PST - 12 comments

little brother is going off to Twente, Netherlands for a year. What is there to do there (besides study)? Any tips on living there? What should he bring (=me stuff in his bag ;-))? posted by mirileh at 6:41 AM PST - 9 comments

I just got a new webcam and the picture quality on MSN now rocks. However, when I take normal pics with dorgem, the pictures come out looking like something a VGA camera would take, rather than a clear crisp 5mp webcam. Would like suggestions for Windows webcam programs that will allow me to just take photos.
Note: I don't want a webcam program with motion detection, photo booth, etc. Just a simple one-click take-this-photo program. Many thanks in advance! posted by Naoko Kensaku at 6:33 AM PST - 2 comments

I'm helping out an elderly lady who is using a laptop with XP which is showing signs of unreliability. It is now permanently sat on a table so it doesn't get moved around. She is especially concerned about a failure leading to a loss of outlook express e-mails.
This person is easily confused by all things computer related so it has to work with minimum intervention and be as simple as possible.
I was thinking of using an external drive and Acronis true image 11 home. I would set up True image to mirror on to the external drive.
I was also thinking of automatically forwarding all outlook express mails to a web mail account - yahoo mail - as she has a yahoo account already. Being able to read from a webmail account would allow uninteruped service should anything go wrong.
Is there anything wrong with this? posted by conrad101 at 6:11 AM PST - 11 comments

Help! We are at an unfamilar beach house for the week, and for our lives we can't get two of the showers here to work. They are both configured the same (see crappy cell phone pic 1 and pic 2). [more inside]posted by Ike_Arumba at 5:58 AM PST - 10 comments

One of my eyes adjusts to darkness much faster than the other. In fact, I'm pretty much blind in one eye for at least half an hour after the lights go out. I've always had this and assumed it was just me. But it turns out my mother has this as well. I'm not worried about it, but what is it? [more inside]posted by xchmp at 5:43 AM PST - 4 comments

Help me find an article I remember reading about someone who cured their tennis elbow by (accidentally?) burning their elbow with a soldering iron. [more inside]posted by jrishel at 5:27 AM PST - 4 comments

I have just started reading 'The Mystery of Capital' by the celebrated Peruvian economist, Hernando de Soto. Having lived in Brazil for many years and seen, on a daily basis, the irrepressible entrepreneurial spirit of which he writes, I can relate to the book and whole-heartedly support the fundamental idea running through it that clearly-defined property rights and simplified procedures for starting new businesses represent the best solution to eradicating poverty in the Third World.
I have an 18,000-word Masters in International Business thesis to submit by June 2009. I'd appreciate your suggestions, Metafilter. [more inside]posted by Zé Pequeno at 3:54 AM PST - 8 comments

I usually design sites using either plain html/css or Wordpress for its CMS capabilities.
However, one client has just asked if there can be a database on his site, which they can add to and visitors/members of the site can purchase "entities" from.
This obviously needs a database with a usable front-end for the client and an ability to connect to a payment gateway to purchase "entities".
Can anyone help advise on a PHP/MySQL package to do this? I do not have the skills to build a database from scratch (I plan to learn, but cannot do so in the timescales needed for this potential assignment), and I'm presuming there must be a solution out there... posted by wibbler at 2:28 AM PST - 4 comments

After a lot of soul searching and discussion, my partner and I have decided that we're going to terminate this pregnancy we've found ourselves in the middle of. In light of this impending (and quite probably emotionally draining) event, we would like to know the experiences of other couples who have had an abortion, specifically how it affected your relationship with one another. [more inside]posted by anonymous at 10:59 PM PST - 26 comments

What should my first programming language be, if I just want to have fun? And what are good books or websites for learning said language? [more inside]posted by papayaninja at 9:37 PM PST - 45 comments

Putting together a fun-filled mail package for my friend. He is currently studying abroad in Thailand. What things are unobtainable, nearly unobtainable, or coveted, that I can send him? I'm in the US. Help me be awesome. posted by Xere at 9:13 PM PST - 12 comments

I just discovered that a family member has cancer. She'll be having a hysterectomy within the next month. She was wondering how she would pass the time during post-operation recovery. I wanted to send her a package filled with stuff she could work on during that time, but I'm not sure what would be appropriate for her recovery (how she'll be feeling). So far, we've thought of sudokus. She likes crafts, but I don't think she knits or does any other sort of needlecraft. Can you help me think of something? Would an Amazon giftcard be better? Is there anything that would be especially helpful in a care package for this situation? Or, would it be better to just send flowers? I want to send something, but I just can't think.. Sorry that this is badly written, but I just can't pose the question any better right now. Thank you very very much for any ideas. posted by Mael Oui at 9:03 PM PST - 18 comments

So I bought an Acer Aspire One, a netbook/UMPC/whatever you want to call it, and it comes with Linpus and I know next to nothing about Linuxish stuff let alone this flavour, please help with some basic questions? [more inside]posted by loquax at 7:01 PM PST - 16 comments

I’m looking for some help picking out a spot for a group camping trip in late September. Focused on NW NC because we haven’t camped there much. We’ve done lots around Mt Rogers in VA but looking for someplace new. Normally happy to explore on our own, but since I’m leading others along I would like pick a cool spot and have some prior sense of what we are getting into. [more inside]posted by jethrographic at 6:33 PM PST - 6 comments

Why did I start getting sudden, brief, migraine-like headaches when performing a high number of repetitions of a strength training exercise? [more inside]posted by ludwig_van at 6:11 PM PST - 11 comments

What is the name of that French song from maybe five years back which had an animated music video of a little girl running through the pastures and playing? After a certain time, she stops playing, and she exits what turns out to be a big stage. A line of children are waiting their turn to enter the stage and play. [more inside]posted by zaebiz at 6:11 PM PST - 3 comments

How can I help my 12-year-old daughter correct her posture? She’s fit, physically active, has decent self esteem…and perpetually rounded shoulders. When I remind her to stand tall, she temporarily straightens up, but then she’s slouched again soon after. At this point I’m concerned that her body doesn’t know what it’s supposed to feel like to stand straight, and that it will be even harder to correct later. I hate to be constantly nagging her, and it doesn’t seem to be working anyways. Suggestions? posted by rsclark at 5:56 PM PST - 50 comments

When watching a tag on Delicious, whether through subscribing on-site or to the tag's RSS feed, I find reading through the deluge of posts quite cumbersome. Is there a way to filter out duplicate links to the same site that have been posted by different users? [more inside]posted by defenestration at 5:26 PM PST - 5 comments

What's left of the old Whitby Psychiatric Ward? I heard a lot of it has been torn down so I wanted to make sure there was still something there before I spend the money on gas to get there. [more inside]posted by Joseppi at 4:42 PM PST - 2 comments

I just noticed that my Macbook's battery is running down even though the power supply is plugged in. Do I need a new power supply or could it be something I can fix? posted by Andy Harwood at 3:05 PM PST - 10 comments

What is this study? A study that found that competent people rate their own capabilities pretty accurately, whereas less competent people tend to over-estimate their capabilities. [more inside]posted by tippiedog at 3:00 PM PST - 6 comments

I'm trying to grow out the straightest hair in the world, from pixie-short. I'm a woman. It's going fast, but I need some in-between styles or tricks to avoid looking like I'm 15 in the meantime. Bonus question about really loose perms. [more inside]posted by carbide at 2:53 PM PST - 11 comments

Please recommend a data recovery/harddrive recovery firm, familiarity with HFS+ filesystems a plus. I've got a dead harddrive that spins up and shows one partition, but I cannot repair it either under OS X or with a Linux live CD. I've tried a few software packages, but none of them get any data off the drive. (Though Data Rescue II does show a list of the file names, when I restored a file, it didn't open, so it can see the files, it's just returning corrupt data.) [more inside]posted by Brian Puccio at 2:47 PM PST - 7 comments

I am so discouraged. I have been trying for the last 5 years to exercise to lose weight. I always do well, until about 6 weeks in I become ill. Usually with a chest cold, a fever, sometimes bronchitis. [more inside]posted by generic230 at 2:16 PM PST - 16 comments

Very Bad Cat: I need advice on what to do about a cat that is chronically peeing inappropriately in the house. We have ruled out medical issues (diabetes, UTI, etc) and believe it's behavioral. We have tried all the usually recommended solutions (keeping the litter box pristine, Feliway, Rx food for urine crystals, etc). What are our options? (Probably too much detail inside.) [more inside]posted by jay dee bee at 1:49 PM PST - 36 comments

Any Neue Deutsche Welle experts around? I recently came across an old cassette (probably from '82 or '83) with a bunch of Neue Deutsche Welle songs on it. It could be a homemade mix-tape, or it could be a copy of an officially released compilation. I've been able to tentatively identify about half of the songs, but haven't had any luck with the others. Anyone want to take a crack at them? The first side of the tape is posted here, and the second side (with mostly unidentified songs) is posted here. Thanks! [more inside]posted by nixxon at 1:42 PM PST - 3 comments

I am using a Lexmark Z605 printer with a Mac OSX 10.5.4 laptop. When I try to print documents it doesn't give me several options (they are crossed out): color options, advanced layout, quality, or printer services. When I click on them (for example, color options) it says:
"The bundle 'ColorOptions' could not be loaded because it does not contain a version for the current architecture.
Contact the bundle's creator listed here for the latest version.
1.0.3 2000-2003 Lexmark International Inc."
What to do? Is the "current architecture" my laptop? [more inside]posted by omnigut at 1:26 PM PST - 2 comments

I just started a new job about 2 months ago, have a history of depression, and can feel a bout of it coming on right now. Basically I don't know what to tell my employer--I've already missed 4 days in my first month or so because of sickness (related to stress/depression/etc.). Obviously, this concerns my boss because if I'm going to miss so many days then we have an issue. What do I tell him? Or should I quit?: [more inside]posted by theposterboy at 1:09 PM PST - 22 comments

I need to find an outdoor, semi-secluded, kind of non-traditional venue for a summer wedding in Portland. Preferably cheap and public, but private is ok. [more inside]posted by fiercekitten at 12:00 PM PST - 10 comments

I'm moving from Boston to Cincinnati in a few weeks, and am doing the drive to OH on my own. I'd like to stop halfway through and stay the night - someplace not expensive, but hopefully someplace nice (to help cushion the blow of leaving 'home' for good). However, Travelocity et. al. are just giving me HoJos, Holiday Inns, etc, all for quite a bit of money per night and generally with questionable cleanliness. It seems logical to get off the highway to find a place that's not going to rip me off - but how do I find a nice, clean, mostly inexpensive place while knowing nothing about the area I'm hoping to stop (Rochester/Buffalo/Erie, PA)? Can you help? [more inside]posted by AthenaPolias at 11:43 AM PST - 16 comments

Where are the best dollar stores (widest selection/ best housewares/ best toys-that-don't-fall-apart-when-touched/ weirdest other stuff) either in the Washington metro area or on-line? posted by mistsandrain at 10:38 AM PST - 4 comments

I want to solicit a personal trainer to come to my father's apartment twice a week and do a session with him in the building's gym. He's too depressed and demotivated to go on his own accord, but he'll comply if someone shows up at his door. How do I do this without paying a fortune? Are there Human Kinetics students around looking for part-time work? How would I go about finding them? There's also a swimming pool, so a swimming instructor would also be possible, but my dad can't swim, so it'd have to be someone patient enough to coach a cranky 57-year-old in swimming. [more inside]posted by simona at 9:34 AM PST - 3 comments

I just saw a house in NY that is being offered as a short sale. It needs work, but the investment would be smart. My real estate agent was trying to dissuade me about considering the house by saying that the house needs so much work. It does need work, but not as extensive as the agent is suggesting. How do I negotiate the process of making an offer and have it accepted? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 9:12 AM PST - 13 comments

Are there any handsfree kits on the US market which will automatically switch from handsfree to handset use when stepping far enough away from the car? [more inside]posted by ayc200 at 8:16 AM PST - 5 comments

My husband and I are working on a project together, and this part is much more his forte than mine. We're writing a song to represent each novel of the Dark Tower by Stephen King, one of my all-time favorite series. But we're quickly becoming frustrated with each other, because, simply put, I cannot wrap the creating music part of this around my head. [more inside]posted by mitzyjalapeno at 8:14 AM PST - 11 comments

Where can you get a clean, safe studio apartment, if possible in a cool area with cheap good restaurants, for under $700/month or less, within 30-45 minutes via mass-transport of Manhattan? posted by shivohum at 7:05 AM PST - 20 comments

Yesterday I spent an incredibly enjoyable night at Miss Behave's Variety Nighty, a cabaret night at the Roundhouse in London, UK. People of Mefi, please help me have many more such evenings. Where can I see more of this kind of thing in and around London? [more inside]posted by Del Chimney at 6:56 AM PST - 2 comments

Math filter: How many equally sized rectangles will fit into a circle, and how should I arrange them in order to make the best-looking approximation? [more inside]posted by brandnew at 6:49 AM PST - 9 comments

I live in the Cleveland, Ohio area (live in upper far east side, work in lower far east side) and am looking for grief resources for any of the following:
people with a DBT background who are grieving, people in their 20s who are grieving, people whose parents died young, "radical Catholics" or "glass-half-full agnostics" who are grieving, Italian-Americans who are grieving a fellow Italian, people who are grieving a loved one that died of a liver ailment.
I am kind of an introvert, so while getting a feel for what groups are out there is good, I could also use websites, books, etc. re: same. Thanks. [more inside]posted by RobotHeart at 6:07 AM PST - 5 comments

Is it better to get any degree or to get the degree that I want? I'm about to start my senior year of college but I find myself wanting to switch majors! What to do? [more inside]posted by Theloupgarou at 5:50 AM PST - 8 comments

Planning on teaching myself Calculus I and II in order to take the AP Calculus BC exam this May. If you've taught or taken either class, at a high school, university, or independently, read on. [more inside]posted by Precision at 11:28 PM PST - 28 comments

My pronunciation of r's and l's is the same - for example, I pronounce lot and rot the same. English is my first (and only) language. When listening, i have no problems distinguishing between the two. No problems with writing either. Only with pronunciation. How do I become better at pronouncing those sounds? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 10:33 PM PST - 12 comments

A potential romantic partner has a very specific phobia. As luck would have it, it happens to be pretty much the exact thing that is my very private fetish. I have never shared it with anyone and don't plan to share it with anyone. Are we doomed, or could we somehow make this work to our advantage? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 10:33 PM PST - 36 comments

LaptopFilter: Do I get a new one tomorrow because I'll have the money and it's a good machine, or do I keep on with my trusty older machine that hasn't given me a touch of trouble yet? Much (maybe too much) [more inside]posted by Galt at 9:28 PM PST - 21 comments

I'm planning to start a new podcast focused on mathematics. The problem is that I'm having trouble coming up with a name for it. My goal is to introduce interesting topics and how they relate to everyday life. It'll be directed at making mathematics more accessible to the layman.
So, anyone have ideas for a name? posted by Proginoskes at 8:16 PM PST - 28 comments

I am a journalist, but having done media business on both the non-profit and private side I am convinced that what will save journalism are publishers rather than just good writing. Problem is that I can't find a publishing school that trains people beyond editorial assistance and layout. Is there an institute anywhere in the world that trains people for careers on the business side of newspaper/magazine publishing? [more inside]posted by parmanparman at 8:08 PM PST - 4 comments

It's that time of the year again, fall semester is beginning in a few days. I want to improve some of my writing and presentation skills. One of them, getting my point across without being condescending. [more inside]posted by sixcolors at 6:43 PM PST - 15 comments

So it's almost time for me to get a new moleskine, but I wanted the cover engraved and I see engraveyourbook.com has stopped doing business. Are there any other places I can engraved moleskines? [more inside]posted by Deflagro at 5:32 PM PST - 8 comments

A friend of mine has just returned from Mongolia and was describing roving mad-max style gangs of men using Nazi symbols, with apparently limited understanding of their meaning in the west. Where can I read more about Mongolian Nazis? Is this really prevalent? How did they come to hear about Nazis in the first place? Do they get along with western neo-nazis (despite being ethnically Mongolian)? [more inside]posted by phrontist at 3:59 PM PST - 21 comments

Now I'm just mad. Before I drag my stupid, crap laptop over to the Geek Squad, help me figure out some solutions for what's like a malware/adware problem. [more inside]posted by santojulieta at 12:56 PM PST - 24 comments

A friend of mine recently went to work for a construction team. Their current music selection on their field boom box is limited to CDs of Journey's Greatest Hits, Led Zeppelin 3 and 4, and Mötley Crüe Shout at the Devil. "Tragically," they recently lost their Huey Lewis and the News Sports CD as well.
We (mostly) agree that these are perfectly fine records, but there's only so much of this one can stand in a 40-hour week.
I was going to help out my buddy track down some new music, but all I'm coming up with is Bob Seger, Eagles, and Steve Perry's Street Talk solo lp. What construction-and-hard-work-friendly full-length releases could be introduced to this stack of CDs to make both my friend and his co-workers happy? He works with men in their late 30s and early 40s, so nothing too outré (No Lightning Bolt or Hair Police.)
posted by porn in the woods at 12:30 PM PST - 55 comments

Help me figure out whether I need to ask for new recommendations for law school! Would old ones (two years old) be too general if they do not indicate my new-found but serious interest in law? [more inside]posted by midatlanticwanderer at 12:02 PM PST - 4 comments

What is the best/easiest/clearest guide book to edible wild plants, especially or specific to Western Canada? I want to go into the woods prepared to come out with real food. posted by Kickstart70 at 9:13 AM PST - 3 comments

Looking for a commuting bike for San Francisco. I have about $1000 to spend and am considering a single speed. Details on that, plus my commute, inside. (And yes, I have seen this and this.[more inside]posted by liketitanic at 8:41 AM PST - 24 comments

I'd like to know more about social, cultural and economic differences between Scandinavian countries. I've seen this and have a few acquaintances that introduced me to national stereotypes, but I'm sure it gets more complex. How does life really vary across Scandinavia? posted by StrikeTheViol at 7:58 AM PST - 10 comments

I am working with a laptop with one of those buttons that can enable or disable the wireless functionality. It seems that this button needs to be pressed each time that the computer is turned on, and doesn't just automatically remain on through reboots. [more inside]posted by dance at 4:34 AM PST - 3 comments

Social stratification is braking my heart . Can any of you out there, help me translate this situation and maybe give me some guidance as to how to go forward? [more inside]posted by anonymous at 3:58 AM PST - 15 comments

BookFilter: I read a story a long time ago about a sort of near-future sci-fi-ish setting where all human beings in the world were rendered sterile thanks to a man-made virus, but I can't remember what it was called. Help! [more inside]posted by Xany at 1:57 AM PST - 23 comments

August 15

When it's really quiet as I try to fall asleep, I'll sometimes hear faint sounds that seem to have been things I'd heard earlier in the day, with what's almost like a residual effect. It mostly seems comprised of co-workers talking, TV/radio broadcasts, and the vocal parts of songs (which doesn't include "Helter Skelter"). It's almost like hearing one's own "inner voice" (at least, I'm assuming), but more faint and on auto pilot. Is this a fairly common occurrence, and what's the cause of it? [more inside]posted by TheSecretDecoderRing at 11:40 PM PST - 28 comments

You're not my docs, and I will call my doc on Monday and try to hammer out a solution. What the heck do you other female MeFites do for menstrually-related migraines? Anything really work for you? [more inside]posted by fairytale of los angeles at 11:05 PM PST - 31 comments

I'm setting up a website for a Community Service group that I am a part of. I have Drupal 6.4 installed on my server and need something set up where we a user can add an event, and others can RSVP for that event. [more inside]posted by nokry56 at 8:42 PM PST - 4 comments

who is the singer or band? I remember seeing a music video on youtube about 8 months ago? in it the female singer is singing while riding a bike the whole time. Behind her, kids on freestyle bikes come out of the woodwork and are doing trick throughout the video.
The song was good. something like modest mouse meets regina spektor on a bike... help me. posted by Paleoindian at 7:43 PM PST - 3 comments

What is going wrong when I try to record tapes from CD? Regardless of circumstance, the cassettes go weird near the ends of each side. [more inside]posted by punchdrunkhistory at 7:13 PM PST - 7 comments

Broken tibia & fibula, 3.5 months ago, clean snap. I got an intramedullary rod in the tibia, screws at the ankle and knee, and absolutely no recommendations for PT other than some exercises to do at home from the doctor. Everything else seems to have healed well enough, but - my big toe ain't movin', and it's stuck in permanent "up". [more inside]posted by saysthis at 7:11 PM PST - 3 comments

ParentTechSupportFilter: My father has a virus. *sigh* before I send him to Geek Squad, what else should I tell him to do that he hasn't done already? [more inside]posted by micawber at 6:37 PM PST - 23 comments

My Nintendo DS has a mic-in and headphone jack. I want to be able to send a signal from my amp/mixer/etc. to the DS for processing in the DS audio homebrew I've downloaded and send the processed signal out to the mixer/amp/etc. [more inside]posted by lekvar at 6:33 PM PST - 4 comments

Excel Filter : I've got a list of a lot of names. All the names are in one column with a different name on each row. The names repeat a varying number of times. How can I get Excel to count how many times each name repeats and then put that number in a column next to the name? [more inside]posted by Autarky at 5:32 PM PST - 3 comments

My father just had a heart attack. I am dropping everything to go and visit him this weekend, but he keeps insisting I do not come and visit. Am I being a jerk for going anyway? [more inside]posted by pazazygeek at 5:00 PM PST - 45 comments

Is there anything I can do to help myself get into grad school (PhD, political science/international relate) between now and January? [more inside]posted by davidstandaford at 4:35 PM PST - 15 comments